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The Arizona Cardinals not only signed Antoine Bethea at the start of free agency but also re-signed A.Q. Shipley to a two year deal.
.@AZCardinals agree with S Antoine Bethea on 3-year deal and agree with C A.Q. Shipley on two-year deal.
— Darren Urban (@Cardschatter) March 9, 2017
The Cardinals struggled to keep their offensive line healthy in 2016. Jared Veldheer was placed on IR as a result to a partially torn bicep. Evan Mathis was placed on IR due to an ankle injury. Backup Ulrick John, acquired from the Dolphins' practice squad, was lost to a dislocated shoulder. Mike Iupati did not play like his Pro Bowl self although healthy for the majority of the 2016 season. The constant change at offensive line with inexperienced starters like Earl Watford, Taylor Boggs, John Wetzel, and Evan Boehm was tough to watch as Carson Palmer seemed to get knocked down in so many down.
Fortunately for the Arizona Cardinals, they were able retain their reliable starter in A.Q. Shipley. He was ranked one of the better centers in the NFL. He was easily the most consistent offensive linemen on the Arizona Cardinals roster as he played every game this past season. Shipley's return gives the Cardinals quality veteran leadership and his knowledge of their offense proves valuable. He will likely compete with Evan Boehm for the starting center position.
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