All-Access with Arians: Having past familiarity has its benefits

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Head coach Bruce Arians, now in his second year with the Arizona Cardinals, meets the media each day during training camp.

Here, in this space, we’ll highlight many of the key topics and personnel conversations he has with reporters following the morning walk-through:

“John Brown (hamstring) will miss another day. He’s not quite ready yet. We were hoping the day off would get him (ready), but he’s still a little tender. Everybody else will practice (including Ernie Sims and Dan Williams).

I was really pleased with the scrimmage (Saturday). Some young players really stepped up and got our attention. Offensively, Robert Hughes and Darren Fells really stepped up in that goal line and short yardage drill as did Jonathan Dwyer. I kind of knew Jon would, but it’s always good to show it to your teammates when you’re on a new team. Bruce Gaston did a heckuva job in our defensive line; really showed up, blowing up some blockers and made a little name for himself in that scrimmage. And that’s what you’re always looking for in that scrimmage. When you go live, some young guy is going to step up and those guys really did. They showed a very physical approach to that scrimmage and I was very pleased to see it.”

How do you see Robert Hughes’ role on the team?

“It’s more of a running back who can potentially play fullback. Give us another set, whether it be three-wides, two backs, two backs and tight end. He’s a good short yardage runner. He’s an excellent receiver. But he’s also an outstanding tough guy.”

Bringing in players who he is familiar with, worked with in the past…

“It’s always good to have a relationship with someone you’re bringing in that you know they’re first going to fit in the locker room. They’re professional to the core. They’ll play football for free. They love to play the game. Having those relationships, like Robert Hughes, I had him in Indianapolis. Those type of guys, when they’re available you want them in your locker room because they’re going to keep bringing that attitude that you want in your locker room that we’re only here to win the Super Bowl. That’s it.”

The Cardinals host the Houston Texans in the first preseason game this week

“Some of these guys are auditioning for 31 other teams. We want them to have the best ability to put the best thing on tape.”

Will Carson Palmer play?

“Everybody will play.”

How much will the starters play?

“Fifteen plays, roughly. We’ll see how it goes. If we had a good drive of six or seven plays, then that might be it for the starters. Logan (Thomas) will play most of the fourth quarter and Ryan (Lindley) will play a big part next week.”

When do you anticipate John Abraham in camp?

“I would hope next week.”

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