In the Arizona Cardinals’ 42-34 win over the New Orleans Saints last Thursday, the defense was on the field for 72 snaps. Four players played every single snap.
How was the playing time divided up?
Let’s go over the individual snap counts for every player, split up by position, and discuss any notable observations from the numbers.
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Defensive line
Zach Allen, 60; J.J. Watt, 60; Leki Fotu, 28; Michael Dogbe, 13; Jonathan Ledbetter, 10; Rashard Lawrence, 4
Lawrence exited early. Watt and Allen continue to play a lot. It was a good thing the Cardinals kept all six linemen active.
Outside linebacker
Markus Golden, 53; Victor Dimukeje, 32; Cameron Thomas, 24; Myjai Sanders, 16; Jesse Luketa, 5
Dimukeje actually got the start but Golden played more. With Devon Kennard gone and Dennis Gardeck injured, there was more playing time for Thomas and Sanders.
Inside linebacker
Zaven Collins, 72; Isaiah Simmons, 54; Ben Niemann, 24; Tanner Vallejo, 21; Zeke Turner, 1
Collins again played every snap. Simmons continues to have a large role and both Vallejo and Niemann get playing time.
Cornerback
Byron Murphy, 72; Marco Wilson, 56; Antonio Hamilton, 35; Christian Matthew, 2
Hamilton saw his most playing time since returning from his injuries.
Safeties
Budda Baker, 72; Jalen Thompson, 72; Chris Banjo, 9
The Cardinals again had a few three-safety packages.
