New Cardinals radio analyst A.Q. Shipley is already telling the world the Cards' offensive line is pretty good. And the spot most wondered about coming into camp, right guard, was a place that is headed in the right direction.
Isaiah Adams, a 2024 third-round pick who started down the stretch last season, needed to get stronger to hold on to the first-string role he's had in the offseason. So far, it's working out.
"Isaiah had a hell of a week," coach Jonathan Gannon said, noting how well he was in the two padded practices. "He probably won the day (Tuesday). He was the all-star of the day truthfully in my mind. Just through team periods through one-on-ones through individuals. He played extremely well."
Gannon actually praised all of the rookie offensive linemen too, but the kudos for Adams are the most important. If the Cardinals can draft and then develop offensive line starters -- especially when it is outside the first two rounds -- it becomes much easier to sustain roster success.
"Everything I've been through has prepared me for this moment," Adams said before camp started.
-- Back-to-back padded practices Monday and Tuesday, even with a day off Wednesday, took a small toll. Wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. sat out Thursday with knee soreness, although coach Jonathan Gannon said it was "being smart" and not serious. Offensive linemen Jake Curhan and Valentin Senn (neck) also sat out.
-- The Cardinals took a "low" day on Thursday coming off the break, but will have pads on both Friday and Saturday again -- the latter being the annual Red & White Practice. "It was above-the-neck emphasis today," safety Budda Baker said.
-- Baker was asked about the three safeties look the Cardinals have with he, Jalen Thompson and Rabbit-Taylor-Demerson. "I can't tell you too much but," Baker said, pausing before adding, "I like it."
"J.T. might be something. I might be something. I won't tell you what."
-- The Cardinals last season kept six defensive linemen on the initial roster. They have more than six who would be worthy of sticking around this year, and Gannon said he's not locking himself into any particular number.
"I'm not in the business of cutting good football players," Gannon said.
Now, Gannon moments later admitted the Cardinals might have to cut a good player or two just because the roster is in such better shape. But on the defensive line, it's easy to see the Cardinals coming in heavy for that group.
-- Wide receiver Quez Watkins left with a trainer during Thursday's work, while inside linebacker J.J. Russell (concussion) returned to practice but was wearing the non-contact yellow jersey.
-- Defensive tackle Walter Nolen III, who said Wednesday he has been working hard to rehab his calf injury, shared a laugh with GM Monti Ossenfort on the sideline during practice.
