FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. -- As defending NFC West title holders and the reigning NFC champions, the Cardinals are in a far different place now than they are accustomed.
Repeating last year's accomplishments is a tall order, and history indicates that Super Bowl losers typically disappear the following year. Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt has been pounding the challenge of building on what the team did a year ago and it appears that his message has gotten across to the players. Any time a team has a solid quarterback, offensive playmakers, as well as retaining most of the roster from the previous season, then there is reason for excitement.
There are questions to be answered, too. For example, the Cardinals lost both coordinators in the offseason.
Nonetheless, the Cardinals were not a fluke in 2008 and are capable of accomplishing more in 2009.
Observation deck
1. Can the offense maintain its status as one of NFL's elite? Kurt Warner told me his surgically repaired hip is fine, but he does experience some pain at times. The pass protection appears solid, and there is decent depth along the line. Anquan Boldin, Steve Breaston and Larry Fitzgerald each had more than 1,000 yards receiving last season, and all three return. However, the Cardinals' biggest question on offense remains their running game, which ranked last in the NFL in 2008. Tim Hightower has improved, but they need first-round pick Chris "Beanie" Wells to contribute and stay healthy. The Cardinals will be a top-10 offense once again, but the top-four performance from last season will be hard to duplicate.
2. Who are the young emerging stars? It is hard for young, unproven players to break into the lineup of teams that make it to the Super Bowl, but in order to continue growing as a franchise those unproven players have to emerge. Whisenhunt is building a club like the Steelers, and that means developing young talent. Keep your eye on DE Calais Campbell, DE Kenny Iwebema, OT Herman Johnson, WR Lance Long and TE Ben Patrick as players stepping up under the guidance of Whisenhunt and his staff.
3. What about the loss of both coordinators? Former offensive coordinator Todd Haley built a special relationship with Warner, but now Whisenhunt takes over the play calling. Whisenhunt called the plays when he first got to Arizona and he is comfortable with the duties. He will permit Warner to have a lot of say in the game plan. Defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast was let go and former Steelers assistant Bill Davis takes over the duties. After watching the game plan for the first preseason game and talking with the defensive players, things look about the same with a fire-zone hybrid defense that will pressure quarterbacks. The defense's ability to stop the run remains a question mark heading into the season.
Biggest surprise
The quick development of second-year DE Calais Campbell has been one of the most pleasant surprises at Cardinals camp. Campbell takes over at right defensive end for Antonio Smith, who followed the big money to Houston. Campbell has tremendous first-step quickness and some of his teammates compare him to a young Trevor Pryce. Campbell is disruptive and will make plays in the backfield this year. Campbell can play over a guard as well as a tackle, and demonstrated a very good burst off a block to close on a quarterback.
Rookie report
Wells hasn't stayed healthy enough in camp to get a proper evaluation, but second-round pick Cody Brown has been very active at camp. Brown is listed as an outside linebacker, but puts his hand on the ground to rush the passer. He has raw talent, but lacks strength and counter moves at this point to be considered a factor in 2009. The rookie who flashed some real potential was offensive tackle Herman Johnson. He is raw with good feet and his recent weight loss gives him a chance to be a solid backup right tackle this year and a potential starter by next year.
Lasting image
Two moments from Cardinals camp come to mind. When the much-forgotten Matt Leinart sat down and discussed his status as a Cardinals quarterback, Leinart admitted he wants to play badly, but instead of sitting and waiting his turn, he simply attacked the process of being as ready as possible when his turn comes. As he said, "I am more focused than I have ever been and I know my decision making is the best it has been in my career. I will be ready when my turn comes."
Extra point
Anquan Boldin, Darnell Dockett and even Mike Gandy have contract issues, but you wouldn't know it when they practice. The effort is outstanding, and they are all able to separate the business from the play. As Boldin said, "People blew out of proportion that I wasn't here in the offseason. I needed some family time and now I'm ready for football."
Prediction
The Cardinals must do better than 3-7 outside the division, but this team is very capable of defending the NFC West title. The defense is improved up front and in the secondary. The offense scores points, which equates to nine or 10 wins in 2009.
