The Arizona Cardinals were back on the practice field Tuesday for three days of work before Saturday’s preseason opener against the Kansas City Chiefs, and head coach Jonathan Gannon told his team Monday night that the starters will play, including quarterback Kyler Murray.
As for why he’s doing things differently than last year, Gannon said, “I think it’s the best thing for our team this year. We’re at a good point with our health. We’re at a good point with our development this year with our team. That’s the best thing to do for our guys.”
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Gannon said the fact the Chiefs often play their starters more than other teams did not influence his decision.
“Not too concerned (about that),” he said. “I’m more concerned with us for preseason 1.”
There is a plan for the snaps the starters will get, but Gannon said, “That won’t get etched into stone until these next three days (of practice) happen. Just because you don’t know what’s gonna happen these three days. (The) health of your team goes into that too, but I’ve got a plan in mind. That can change too mid-game, honestly, but I feel good about it.”
Wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., who missed a few days of work because of knee soreness and an illness returned to practice Tuesday and is also expected to play Saturday.
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Aside from the players still on active/physically unable to perform (defensive linemen Bilal Nichols and Walter Nolen III along with outside linebacker BJ Ojulari), also not practicing Tuesday are wide receivers Michael Wilson (concussion) and Simi Fehoko (quad), center/guard Jon Gaines II I (thumb), defensive lineman Justin Jones (knee) and linebacker J.J. Russell (concussion).
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This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: Jonathan Gannon reveals plan for starters in preseason opener