Dockett continues to work during lockout
Jun 3, 2011, 4:35 PM | Updated: 6:09 pm
Needless to say the ongoing NFL lockout is affecting all NFL players and teams, but it is impacting some a lot more than others.
“[The lockout] benefits everyone that’s been to the playoffs and the Super Bowl teams,” Cardinals defensive tackle Darnell Dockett told ESPN Tucson’s Jody Oeheler.
“It’s benefitting all them, but not the teams that finished in last place, the teams that need quarterbacks or have new coaches. I think it’s hurting more people than they realize.”
The lockout may not be “benefitting” teams as Dockett states, but it is certainly hampering the Arizona Cardinals and other teams in similar situations. The lockout is currently preventing them from addressing the quarterback situation, establishing team unity and most importantly improving the team.
The NFL’s current work stoppage is frustrating for Dockett and the Cardinals because the star lineman is eager to get back on the field and wash away the miserable memory that was 2010.
The Arizona Cardinals finished 5-11 a year ago and while no professional athlete enjoys or accepts losing, Dockett made it very clear that last year’s results were unacceptable and that he was extremely motivated to increase the team’s win total in 2011.
“The only way we are going to get out of last place in to work harder than everyone else,” Dockett said. “Every time I look up and see that Seattle won the division, it makes me sick.”
Knowing that Dockett can’t stand to see other teams win the division should be a positive sign for Cardinals fans who are still recovering from last season.
Dockett’s motivation and work ethic may be a sign of things turning in the right direction, especially if his attitude is contagious amongst his teammates. However, Dockett’s rigorous offseason training regimen means nothing unless there is a 2011 season.