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The Arizona Cardinals are putting an emphasis on the running game.
That was clear in their free agency plan this offseason with the signings of Justin Pugh and Andre Smith, in the draft with the Mason Cole and Chase Edmonds picks and with the move of Elijhaa Penny and pickup of undrafted free agent fullback Austin Ramesh.
Now, they are bringing in an established fullback as well, as the team has signed Derrick Coleman to a one-year deal per Adam Schefter:
Derrick Coleman agreed to a one-year deal with the Arizona Cardinals and should be the starting fullback, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 9, 2018
The 27-year old Coleman is five year NFL veteran, spending his first four seasons with the Seattle Seahawks before spending 2017 with the Atlanta Falcons.
Coleman is a fullback, no questions.
He has 12 career carries and 13 career receptions, and only two touchdowns, both receiving.
He has helped pave the way for an All Pro season for Marshawn Lynch in 2012, and two Pro Bowl seasons for Lynch in 2013 and 2014.
In 2017, he helped the Atlanta Falcons duo of Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman combine for nearly 1,500 yards and 12 touchdowns rushing.
All of a sudden, the fullback position battle is one to watch.