In one big wave, defensive reinforcements rolled back onto the Cardinals practice field this week.
Three possible starters – safety Tyrann Mathieu, defensive tackle Frostee Rucker and cornerback Justin Bethel – made their training camp debuts on Sunday, and first-round pick Robert Nkemdiche followed on Monday.
The Cardinals’ explosive offense grabbed most of the headlines last season, finishing first in total offense and second in scoring as quarterback Carson Palmer turned out near-MVP-level production, and is expected to be among the league’s best once again.
But now that Mathieu is back, it’s clear the defense has no shortage of potential stars.