The anticipation for the Arizona Cardinals' regular season is building as fans count down just 11 days until the team's opener against the Los Angeles Chargers on September 13. This moment serves as a perfect opportunity to reflect on the challenges and achievements of the Cardinals during the 2011 NFL season.
The 2011 season was marked by significant hurdles, beginning with the NFL lockout that affected all teams. Coming off a disappointing 5-12 record in 2010 and the retirement of star quarterback Kurt Warner, the Cardinals made a bold move by trading for quarterback Kevin Kolb. This trade involved sending cornerback Domonique Rodgers-Cromartie and a second-round draft pick to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for Kolb, who was expected to be the franchise's new leader.
However, Kolb's tenure with the Cardinals was plagued by injuries. He dealt with turf toe and a concussion, limiting him to just nine starts throughout the season. The Cardinals began the year with a dismal 1-6 record but managed to rally in the latter part of the season, winning five of their last six games to finish with an 8-8 record. This late-season surge was largely fueled by second-year quarterback John Skelton, who stepped in and posted a 5-2 record as a starter, igniting a quarterback competition heading into the following offseason.
One of the standout players of the 2011 season was rookie cornerback Patrick Peterson, who was selected fifth overall in the NFL Draft. Peterson made an immediate impact, returning four punts for touchdowns, showcasing his exceptional athleticism and playmaking ability. His performance earned him a spot in the Pro Bowl, where he was recognized as a punt returner, and he was also named a first-team All-Pro.
The Cardinals had a total of three players selected for the Pro Bowl that year. Alongside Peterson, wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald and safety Adrian Wilson also received honors for their performances. Fitzgerald continued to be a dominant force in the receiving game, finishing the season with 80 receptions for 1,411 yards and eight touchdowns. Meanwhile, running back Beanie Wells led the team in rushing with 1,047 yards.
On the defensive side, Calais Campbell emerged as a key player, leading the team with eight sacks, while Richard Marshall topped the squad with three interceptions. The defense was bolstered by several players who contributed significantly, including Wilson, who recorded 14 pass breakups.
As the Cardinals gear up for the new season, the memories of the 2011 campaign remind fans of the resilience and potential of the team. The upcoming game against the Chargers will be a fresh start, and the hope is that the Cardinals can build on the lessons learned from past seasons and make a strong push in the competitive NFL landscape.
Leave a Comment