Cardinals’ Dockett could be in for career season

By Connor Byrne  |   Monday, June 26, 2006  |  Comments( 1 )

Arizona Cardinals
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In his first two years in the NFL, Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Darnell Dockett has proven to be a solid performer. The Cardinals drafted the former Florida State star in the third round of the 2004 draft, hoping he'd be worthy of a starting job on what was a porous defense.

Not only has Dockett been a starter for 31 of his first 32 games as a pro, but he's been one of the Cardinals' best tackles in quite some time. Given the Cardinals' recent history at defensive tackle, that may not be saying much, but it's something.

As a rookie in '04, Dockett racked up 39 total tackles, 3 ½ sacks and an interception. He was certainly a pleasant surprise for the Cardinals' coaching staff, especially head coach Dennis Green. When Arizona entered that season, Dockett was a starter. He could have been a success or failure, and he succeeded, providing the Cardinals' fans some joy in an otherwise disappointing season.

Dockett entered last year with high expectations from both the Cards' fans and defensive coaching staff. Unfortunately for Dockett and the other parties mentioned, the 293-pounder's 2005 was little more than a letdown. In Arizona's 5-11 season, Dockett ended up with 10 less tackles than his rookie year (29), three less sacks (½) and the same interception total. Clearly, Dockett's sophomore season in the pros saw him slump substantially.

However, entering the new season, the Cardinals and Dockett have new expectations heaped on them. The formerly hapless Cardinals are supposed to compete for a playoff spot in 2006, while Dockett will have to form a terrific duo up front with a new starting tackle next to him, veteran Kendrick Clancy.

One big motivation likely to fuel Dockett is his contract situation. At the close of the season, he'll become a restricted free agent. He'll be paid $425,000 for the final year of his contract, and the Arizona Cardinals will have the right to match any new offers Dockett might receive from other franchises.

Of course, if Dockett finally breaks out and has a huge year, it means he'll be set to rake in some big-time money. The bad news for the Cardinals is that a big season from Dockett could mean they'll have trouble matching large offers from other teams, but they'll cross that bridge when they get to it.

Currently, the most accomplished ex-Florida State tackle in the league is the Indianapolis Colts' Corey Simon. For most of his six-year career, Simon--also 293 pounds--has been an elite player.

Should Dockett perform nearly as well as his Seminole colleague, the chances of the Cards' defense experiencing success this season will be quite high.

--Connor J. Byrne can be reached at cbyrne@realfootball365.com

Get more on Darnell Dockett at Realfootball365.com
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