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This time last year was the worst for Kevin Peterson.
A chance to make a loaded Los Angeles Rams roster after a strong finish to the 2017 season, Peterson tore his ACL and the Rams decided to just load up their cornerback room to be the best in the NFL.
Peterson was so close to being a part of a great NFL team and then it was taken away.
This offseason was even more difficult for Peterson. He was unlikely to make a loaded Rams roster, while working back from the injury and now was going to be back at the bottom again.
He truly is back at the bottom, claimed by the worst team in the NFL from the 2018, Peterson will also finally have his chance to stick in the NFL.
Peterson will be along for the ride the first week or so, but the Cardinals are hoping he catches that spark from the end of the 2017 season.
In his lone career start, against the San Francisco 49ers in week 17 of the NFL season, Peterson turned in a masterful performance.
Peterson had eight tackles, two interceptions and a fumble recovery in the game. Pro Football Focus gave him a 93.1 grade for the game:
Peterson’s 61 snaps in this game more than doubled his career total to date and what a stunning game he came up with. Targeted five times, Peterson allowed only one catch for 14 yardswhile breaking up three passes and intercepting two. Peterson will be relegated back to the bench when Trumaine Johnson returns for the playoffs but a display like this shouldn’t be quickly forgotten when it comes to future playing time.
Now, in his first season back after missing all of 2018, Peterson is picking up right where he left off, at least in the preseason.
He is Pro Football Focus’ seventh overall corner with an 87 grade and has been one of the better corners in the preseason:
The former undrafted free agent has been on the field for 50 coverage snaps in August and has allowed just one reception for 19 yards. He also leads all cornerbacks with two interceptions so far in the preseason and also has a pass breakup to his name.
He’ll get his chance to finally stick in the NFL, let’s hope for his sake and the Arizona Cardinals, he nails it.