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DRC has a Memorable Practice at Cardinals OTA

There was never any doubt that Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie would have to go through a learning curve to adjust from DII Championship Subdivision competition to players at an NFL level. That was never more evident that in a particular play in yesterday's OTA that matched DRC one on one with Pro Bowl receiver, Larry Fitzgerald. Fitz burned the rookie for a touchdown and DRC was visibly disappointed with his play, while walking back to the huddle with his head down.

Drc3_medium

Drc4_medium

Pictures courtesy of azcardinals.com

Veteran cornerback Eric Green noticed DRC's demeanor and was quick to hand out some pointers.

"He was sitting (on the route) waiting for Fitz to stop and I told him, 'You are fast, but if he is going vertical, you have to read his hips,' " Green said. "He beats himself up, like we all do. I told him, ‘That’s Fitzgerald. He’s going to get one here and there. Don’t worry about it.’ He shook it off and he came back and had a great practice."

 

DRC didn't let the play stick in his head too long though as he made a diving interception on a Kurt Warner pass tipped by Clark Haggans. Whisenhunt noted after practice that his most recent first round pick has flashed his ability and that he can tell that he's learning. Whiz went on to say he thinks DRC has been surprised by the speed of the game, even in practice, and the accuracy of an NFL quarterback. He also noted that his speed has been impressive in practice but that he is anxious to see how physical he plays once the pads are on. Hopefully DRC will get plenty of practice going against two Pro Bowl receivers in camp and I, for one, can't wait to see this kid in the preseason.

  • Just a reminder, the Cardinals will have to cut two players prior to the start of camp since the NFL has a cap of 80 players on the roster. That is assuming that all seven draft picks are signed at the start of camp. There are several positions that currently have a dearth of players including TE (6 players),  WR (9 players),  RB (7 players) and CB (9 players). It'll be interesting to see who won't be around when camp opens. Any guesses?
  • Whisenhunt also noted that they won't start experimenting with a radio in the helmet of a defensive player until training camp. He went on the say that the players who have the radio may change game to game. He also noted that the information is starting to pile up, leading to more mistakes by the younger players, but that the intensity and focus has been up to par. I'd have to think it would be Wilson or Dansby though, thoughts?

0 recs  |  Comment 2 comments

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This guy!

I might actually have to drive to Flagstaff to see how this guy holds up! I am very eager to see how he handles the change from Tenn. State to the NFL. He has all the makings of a great CB, only time and John Lott can tell! I said it from get go, DRC just needs to spend a few months packing on some pure muscle and learning the techniques (and not just relying on his speed) and he will be something fierce. I wonder why Deion Sanders loves DRC so much….I though Deion and Mike Jenkins had a more personal relationship. Although, I do believe DRC and Mike Jenkins grew up close together.

Also, do you know anything about Deion’s Memorial Day Weekend for Cornerbacks, I know DRC attended..I just have heard too many published reports (only a few things about Pacman Jones attending as well.)

Rhonnie.F
http://www.fannation.com/users/view_user_profile/124452
letsgodeep.com

by Rhonnie.F on Jun 2, 2008 11:09 PM MDT reply actions   0 recs

completely agree

DRC seems like a guy who’s been able to rely on his physical skills to dominate but he’ll have to refine his technique as well as add some much needed bulk. They have stated that he hopes to get up to 195 before camp, he’s just not sure he can keep the weight on.

I hadn’t heard about that, I’ll starting searching around but if you hear anything, please feel free to share.

by cgolden on Jun 3, 2008 5:32 AM MDT up reply actions   0 recs

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