Cardinals' Rucker noticing positive change in teammate Nkemdiche
Arizona Cardinals defensive lineman Robert Nkemdiche had a rookie season to forget, and it's quickly being replaced by a memorable showing at this year's OTAs.
The Cardinals used their 2016 first-round pick on the standout from Ole Miss. Expected to contribute immediately, he played in just five games last year and recorded just one tackle, according to NFL.com.
Rather than sulk, Nkemdiche has been a notable presence at the Cardinals' training facility during this offseason, and at least one teammate has taken note.
"He's changed. For the good. He's changed," defensive end Frostee Rucker said to Darren Urban of AZCardinals.com.
"I've been happy with him. I never got down on him. I didn't expect him to come in and do all that dominating, because I knew the position. It takes time."
The regular season remains more than three months away, but Rucker remains impressed by the strides his young teammate has taken thus far.
"I'm very proud of him," he said. "I'm not going to tell him to his face yet, but toward the end of training camp, I'll probably tell him. Because I know he's trying to become a dominant player. He's trying to step up and make his name and make a role for himself, and that's all you can ask of him."
Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians questioned Nkemdiche's work ethic and maturity last season. Entering his second season, the 22-year-old believes he's made the necessary adjustments.
"It's staying on the path of what I am doing, staying focused, trying to be as pinpoint perfect, not being on the (mental error) sheet and not making minute mistakes," Nkemdiche said.
- With h/t to NFL.com