Cardinals vs Broncos: Players to Watch

Aug 22, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back Chris Johnson looks on against the San Diego Chargers during the second half at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Chargers won 22-19. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Watching a preseason football game is something I try to never do. If you and I differ in that respect, you may enjoy the Cardinals fourth and final preseason game later today when they take on the Denver Broncos.

You typically don’t see former rushing leaders in these types of games so watching the Cardinals newly acquired Chris Johnson will be a treat. During the season, he’s likely to be the number two back, behind Andre Ellington, but you never know when a star from the past may shine brightly again.

Inside Linebacker is another spot to keep your eye on.  Starting ILB Sean Weatherspoon will make preseason debut after hamstring issues had kept him out of the first three games, but it’s the undrafted guys on the defensive end that will be the most intriguing to watch.

The Cardinals have three undrafted rookies on the defensive end that will use this game as their final tryout to make the 2015 roster.  Look for Cariel Brooks at corner as well as Alani Fua and Gabe Martin fighting it out at inside linebacker.

Other than those guys, it’s the usual backups taking snaps, wasting time, and hoping to not get injured.  Of course, nobody wants to see Carson Palmer sidelined with an injury again this year (after all, I have him on a fantasy team) but if tragedy strikes him again, look for today’s quarterbacks , Phillip Sims and Logan Thomas, to take his spot.