Cardinals’ David Johnson recruited Palmer, Fitzgerald to play in 2018
Jan 22, 2018, 11:42 AM | Updated: 11:43 am
Running back David Johnson sees potential for his Arizona Cardinals to put together a strong season in 2018.
Retaining the leaders on offense and getting healthy himself was a key part of that, and Johnson put in the work on both issues over the offseason.
While speaking on the Pro Football Talk PM Podcast with Mike Florio, Johnson dropped some nuggets on how he tried to convince retired quarterback Carson Palmer to come back for the 2018 season.
“I was trying to get him to come back,” Johnson said. “I was trying to recruit him to come back, but I think his mindset is that he’s retiring and I definitely understand where he’s coming from and I’m definitely going to stay close to him.”
Johnson’s case for pushing wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald to return — he hasn’t made a decision yet — and not retire was more numbers based.
“Larry’s gotta comeback. He’s still playing at a high level. I think he had 100 receptions and he had 1,000 reception yards. He went to another Pro Bowl,” Johnson said of the 14-year veteran. “He’s got to finish out and help us get to this Super Bowl that he’s trying to get.”
Johnson’s rookie contract expires at the end of 2018 and despite missing 15 games last season, he is due for a raise when his deal is up. For now, Johnson’s focus is on recovery and preparation for the 2018 season.
Johnson likes the Cardinals’ chances in 2018.
“Even with all of those injuries, we still finished 8-8,” Johnson said of 2017.
“With everyone coming back healthy next year, we’re going to be at the top of the division.”
One person Johnson really wants to see return is fellow running back Adrian Peterson.
“With him coming back and both of us actually playing, we’re both going to be able to elevate each others game,” Johnson said.
The Cardinals’ front office brass has its hands full this offseason. It needs to hire a coaching staff to work under expected head coach Steve Wilks, address the quarterback position — no QBs are under contract for 2018 — and fill out the rest of the roster.
At least the Cardinals can count on ambassador David Johnson to help with the sales pitches.
