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Throughout his NFL career, and his entire life, really, Michael Adams has had to overcome adversity. In professional football, it's not often that you find teams willing to take a gamble on a cornerback that stands in at about 5'8". Still, it has been his hard work, determination and willingness to take on any role that he is asked that makes him a true team player.
And that is why he still has a job with the Arizona Cardinals.
Thanks to a piece from Darren Urban, the official team writer for the Arizona Cardinals, we get to read a bit more into the life of Money Mike. Having to defend his stature has been something that he has had to do ever since childhood and in the NFL, it isn't much different. Day in and day out, Adams has to prove that he belongs.
As the nickelback for the Cards, Adams does not have the height that is necessarily coveted by coaches, but he has the hard hitting play and skill level. His fundamentals are top notch because, well, they have to be. If they weren't, how else would he be able to tackle a wide receiver that is eight inches taller and eighty pounds heavier than him?
Where he really makes his money is on special teams. As a gunner, Adams is able to fly down the field and lay big hits on the opposing return men. Rather than his height, it is his hustle that puts him head and shoulders above the rest.
So will he have a spot on the 53-man roster in 2012? As Urban notes, the team just drafted another defensive back/special teams ace in Justin Bethel. Then you have Jamell Fleming, the team's third-round draft pick, aiming to take the nickel corner spot from Adams.
Still, I would have to think that if Adams has made it this far, he can continue to strive and make the team once again. He brings a sense of leadership to the special teams unit and he still performs at a high level. Plus, having too many defensive backs really isn't a problem at all.
If he doesn't make the cut, there will be plenty of other suitors calling. Because although teams may not be on the hunt for 5'8" corners, they are always on the lookout for a football player with heart.
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