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Darnell Dockett injury: Bruce Arians wants veteran on sideline, praises Rucker, Stinson

A look at how the defense will fill his role.

Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

The Arizona Cardinals will miss Darnell Dockett on the field, but they have guys to step in for him. As has been stated, it will be his leadership that is missed.

But, according to Bruce Arians, maybe they won't miss him so much. In his Wednesday morning media session, the head coach revealed his intention of keeping the vocal and emotional leader with the team as much as possible.

"I plan on keeping him on the sidelines all year long because of his spirit and leadership, which we sorely need," he said.

I'm sure Dockett had something to do with that decision, too. He wants to be out there.

To replace him on the field, "it is a great opportunity for someone else," Arians said.

Who will that be?

Arians praised the play of Frostee Rucker and Ed Stinson. Rucker, who now is the starter, has been doing very well. "Frostee's been playing probably the best I've ever seen him play," Arians noted. He also said that rookie fifth rounder Ed Stinson "has made great progress" and that third rounder Kareem Martin has been playing well in the passing game...but not so much in the run game.

Another wrinkle they will add is using Dan Williams some at defensive end. Getting Alameda Ta'amu back allows them to do that.

The role that newcomers Isaac Sopoaga and Ryan McBean are yet unknown.

On Sunday against the Bengals we will get our first look at how the line will look.