The Arizona Cardinals held their first practice of training camp on Thursday, giving fans the first look at what the team will look like in 2019 with No. 1 pick quarterback Kyler Murray running the offense.
If you were unable to attend, here are some observations from reporters and analysts who were in attendance.
Snack time?
The Cardinals took a page out of youth football teams and had snacks for the players about halfway through practice this.
It is more evidence of taking a more modern approach to things. Under Bruce Arians, the players certainly were given something after practice. It just wasn’t seen. Last year, under Steve Wilks, there was fruit and fruit smoothies for players to grab coming off the field. With Kliff Kingsbury, they get a little boost for their bodies during practice.
What does the first-team offensive rotation look like?
With a first look at what could be the starting lineup on offense, fans could see who got first-team reps.
The Cardinals used four wide receivers and the two players who apparently have the incredibly early lead for the third and fourth receiver spots are Kevin White and Trent Sherfield. A.Q. Shipley practiced with the first team at center.
Tramaine Brock playing in the slot
At cornerback, the two main starters are Patrick Peterson and Robert Alford. On Thursday, when the defense went with five defensive backs, it was veteran Tramaine Brock and not rookie Byron Murphy who got the defensive reps.
Memorable moments
Receivers Larry Fitzgerald and Kevin White made plays that wowed those in attendance. Fitz made a one-handed grab that seems only typical of him.
White also impressed.
Tracking Murray’s passing stats
Because practice was open to fans, reporters could track and comment on how Murray looked. He showed great accuracy, only misfiring on three passes.
Byron Murphy working at 2 positions
Because Patrick Peterson got reps with the first-team defense, it meant second-round pick Byron Murphy practiced with the second team. He got work at both outside corner and in the slot, according to Kyle Odegard.
Offense was as spread out as many anticipated
Many anticipate the Cardinals to use four and five receivers on offense. That appears to be the case, especially with starting tight end Charles Clay beginning camp on PUP.
In their first practice, they did show those looks.
But they don’t always go no-huddle or with no TEs
There is actual proof the Cardinals will actually huddle up.
They also showed a look with two tight ends. They were both lined in the slot like receivers, though.
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