Dealing Cards: As pads go on the energy goes up

GLENDALE, Ariz. — For the first time this training camp the Arizona Cardinals donned pads, making Monday’s practice — their third at University of Phoenix Stadium — noticeably different than the pair that preceded it.

Being able to hit someone a part of football, after all, even if tackling was not part of the deal Monday.

Not surprisingly there was more energy in this practice, which saw both sides of the ball make some plays.

Notable

– Justin Bethel had a pretty good day for himself, coming up with an early interception in 7-on-7 and getting his hands on a couple other passes throughout the afternoon. Battling for the No. 2 cornerback spot, he has been tabbed as the frontrunner and has given no indication of losing his grip on the job.

– Linebacker Gabe Martin also picked off a pass, with his coming on a Blaine Gabbert pass that bounced off of Chad Williams at the very end of practice.

– Carson Palmer missed on some throws early but connected with Aaron Dobson for a nice deep ball early and then found Chad Williams for a long play in 7-on-7.

– Undrafted rookie wideout Larry Clark made a really nice catch in coverage on a deep ball from Trevor Knight.

– Both Andre Ellington and Kerwynn Williams saw running back reps with the first team at times. David Johnson lined up a good amount at receiver.

– Gabbert connected with TE Ifeanyi Momah, who made a nice catch at the sideline during the two-minute offense.

Monday’s stories: Mathieu looks to regain confidence, Position battles few and far between for Cardinals, Bucannon plays comforting role for Reddick, All-Access with Bruce Arians

Injury update

Linebacker Alani Fua left toward the middle of practice, walking off under his own power. Safety Ironhead Gallon appeared to suffer a leg injury after he collided with receiver Chad Williams on a play. Defensive back Harlan Miller also left the practice.

Corners Jumal Rolle and Elie Bouka were out once again, as were linebacker Jarvis Jones and $ LB Deone Bucannon.

Neither WR Jaron Brown nor QB Drew Stanton practiced Monday, though that was because each was given the day off.

Bringing the energy

While not necessarily a trash talker, Patrick Peterson was certainly one of the more vocal players during Monday’s practice. He said afterward as a leader, he makes it a point to pass his energy on to his teammates.

It worked, and as he sees it the defense had the upper hand this time.

“Guys flying around, getting their hands on balls, got a couple of interceptions today in half-line,” Peterson said. “Winning those scenarios at the end of the ballgame, two minute warnings; keeping them out of field goal range.

“Those are the things that win ballgames, and today, happily, we won.”

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