Patrick Peterson is one of the NFL’s future stars

While linemen are arguably the most important people on the football field, fans love to watch impact players.

Touchdowns, interceptions and jaw dropping hits are what drive ratings and jersey sales.

Everyone wants an impact player and in Patrick Peterson, the Cardinals seem to have one.

In an ESPN blog about the future stars of the NFC West, Peterson was mentioned, along with Seattle’s Russell Okung, St. Louis’ Sam Bradford and San Francisco’s Colin Kaepernick, as someone who could have the biggest impact on the division in years to come.

Peterson appeared twice on our Dream Team ballot, once as a cornerback and also as a return specialist. There’s no such thing as a sure bet coming out of college. Peterson looks like one. The physical talent he possesses is obvious. His confidence and strong presence persuaded me to list him as a future star even though Peterson hasn’t even lined up for a minicamp practice, let alone for a regular-season snap. Peterson’s decision to drop 10 pounds to disprove speculation that he might evolve into a safety seemed to show Peterson has the right makeup. His talents in the return game will give him an opportunity to make an immediate impact, diminishing the pressure upon him to excel immediately as a cornerback.

Peterson’s versatility is what draws NFL teams to him. Everyone loves watching Darrelle Revis blanket a receiver and Desean Jackson returning a punt.

Thanks to their first round draft pick, the Cardinals may have found a hybrid of both.

Follow @AZSports