The first depth chart of the season was released Monday. It's an unofficial chart. I mean, it's official in the context that the team put it out. But it's seriously subject to change, and everything must be viewed within that prism. Preseason games will impact decision-making. That said, there were some things to note.
Brice Butler gets the initial nod as the No. 2 starting receiver other than Larry Fitzgerald. Chad Williams is officially behind Fitz (and Christian Kirk behind Williams), while J.J. Nelson and Greg Little are the ones listed behind Butler. Of course, they will all be getting reps and scrutinized as we go along.
Benson Mayowa is listed as the top defensive end across from Chandler Jones, while Jamar Taylor is the No. 2 cornerback. In Mayowa's case, he continues to swap reps with the first unit with Vontarrius Dora in practice. The backup cornerbacks are listed as rookie Chris Campbell and Bene Benwikere -- leaving 2016 third-round pick Brandon Williams third-string for now.
Meanwhile, the return game, right now, has Kirk as punt returner and T.J. Logan as kickoff returner. And again, as we go, this all can easily change (and it might change on the field yet stay unchanged on the unofficial official depth chart.)
As for practice Monday, the first for Mason Cole as new starting center:
-- The highlight of the work was some offensive plays down at the 3-yard line, where the defense had to come up with a goalline stand. The first units had some emotion, with defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche busting through on the first play and burying (well, as close as you can to burying without going to the ground) running back David Johnson in the backfield. The first unit, with Josh Rosen at QB given Sam Bradford's veteran day off, could not score.
-- The second unit did, with Chase Edmonds scoring on the first play behind a big block from fullback Elijhaa Penny. Penny did such a good job coach Steve Wilks ran into the pile to congratulate him.
-- Defensive tackle Olsen Pierre left for the locker room with head athletic trainer Tom Reed late in the practice. Linebacker Deone Bucannon, cornerback Jonathan Moxey and linebacker Airius Moore remain sidelined. Bradford, Larry Fitzgerald and Mike Iupati got vet days.
