Cardinals notebook: Isaiah Simmons doesn’t see massive change in role

GLENDALE — There’s a new position listed next to the Arizona Cardinals’ Isaiah Simmons, picking up the role of star backer this training camp.

But while the name is new, what is being asked of Simmons is not.

“It feels like what it was last year,” Simmons said Wednesday, “Not too much more, not too much less. I like the new name for it, though. I feel like it’s kind of fitting.”

“That’s my first time getting like a cool name to a position,” he added.

This camp, Simmons has been seen at multiple positions all over the football field, whether that’s at linebacker, safety or dime.

It’s a way to keep opposing offenses guessing as to where Simmons will line up and allows the star backer to get back to his college days of being a do-all type of defender.

“I just feel really comfortable,” Simmons said. “I feel like its a lot of similarities to Clemson. Obviously that’s how I got here and that’s what I was comfortable with during all my college career.

“Being able to do it at the highest level is — I guess a lot of courtesy to (Vance Joseph) for allowing me to do that and also the team for working with me and being able to help me out … just to be the best version of myself.”

‘Can’t wait’

New Cardinal and running back Darrel Williams did his best impression of former NFLer Bart Scott on Wednesday when talking about Arizona’s Week 1 opponent.

You know, Williams’ former team the Kansas City Chiefs, the same franchise that opted against offering the running back a new contract this offseason after spending the last four seasons with the AFC West team.

“It’s going to be real exciting. Can’t wait,” Williams said Wednesday. “I really can’t wait.”

In his last year with Kansas City, Williams turned in a solid effort, surpassing the 1,000-yard mark between carries and catches.

But after Kansas City decided against a reunion with the running back, Williams was forced to reevaluate and change gears.

Now, it’s about making his name known in the Valley as he competes for reps in a loaded running backs room that includes an up-and-coming Eno Benjamin.

“It’s good to have competition. I feel like me personally, it brings out the best out of me.”

EXTRA POINTS

– A handful of veterans were given days off on Wednesday, including DeAndre Hopkins, J.J. Watt, Zach Ertz, Rodney Hudson, Justin Pugh and Kelvin Beachum.

– Nick Vigil continues to have a strong training camp. He picked off quarterback Colt McCoy in the red zone.

– Antoine Wesley was flying all over the field on Wednesday, reeling in a long touchdown, but was shaken up a few times throughout practice.

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