The Arizona Cardinals announced yesterday that Carson Palmer will be returning for the 2017 season.
The veteran quarterback will be returning with wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald to play with the Cardinals for another season.
Palmer, 37, had a rough time this past season and was unsure of his return stating he wanted to see how his body felt after some rest. Being sacked 40 times during the season, the third most in the NFL will certainly have some physical repercussions.
“My intent was to take some time after the season to get away and see where I was physically and mentally,” said Palmer. “On both fronts, I can say I’m ready to get back to work and prepare for the 2017 season. This is a phenomenal group with a very special opportunity in front of it. I know how rare that is and I couldn’t be more excited to be a part of it.”
Palmer reportedly agreed to a $15.5 million salary which will officially take place today.
At the end of the regular season, Palmer stated he wasn’t entirely sure what the future held for him. After their final home game, Palmer said, “I haven’t thought about that. But, I expect to. I’d like to.”
In an interview with NFL Insiders last week, Arizona Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians said, “He played so well at the end of the season. He’s not ready to give it up, I don’t believe. I think it’s just a matter of the body healing, like every year with those older guys. And we now have a way of keeping him fresh every week. And he knows that we can keep him fresh and ready for Sundays.”
Although the Cardinals didn’t have a good season, finishing 7-8-1, Palmer passed for 597 yards, a new personal high, and had 27 touchdowns.
Palmer has been with the Cardinals since the 2013 season, having been drafted by the Bengals in 2004.
According to NBC Sports, the Cardinals are still looking for a backup quarterback, should Palmer not be able to play at any point during the season.
Featured Image Via Flickr/fantasyfootballswami
