While Arizona Cardinals fans may not be, quarterback Carson Palmer is excited to return to the team next season. Palmer, 37, made his decision to return next season shortly after Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald announced that he was returning to the team next season, opting not to retire.
Palmer’s goal was to see if he was physically ready for another grueling NFL season, he told the team’s official website.
“My intent was to take some time after the season to get away and see where I was physically and mentally,” Palmer said. “On both fronts, I can say I’m ready to get back to work and prepare for the 2017 season. This is a phenomenal group with a very special opportunity in front of it. I know how rare that is and I couldn’t be more excited to be a part of it.”
Palmer’s poor play wasn’t entirely his fault as he was brutalized behind a terrible offensive line all season, sacked 40 times in 2016 which was the fifth-most in the NFL.
Palmer’s $15.5 million salary for 2017 becomes fully guaranteed on Friday.
Arizona will have to address the offensive line and depth at quarterback through the draft and free agency.