The Arizona Cardinals revealed wide receiver Christian Kirk as one of their listed starters on the depth chart going into the 2019 NFL season. It appears he is poised to take on an integral role on special teams as well.
Rookie coach Kliff Kingsbury was initially hesitant to name Kirk as one of his returners. But according to Katherine Fitzgerald of the Arizona Republic, the second-year pro is looking forward to resuming his role hauling in punts.
“I love that. It's one of my favorite aspects of the game, so I'm excited to be back there,” Kirk said.
Kirk showed plenty of promise early on after being taken in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Not only did he emerge as a suitable option in the passing game but he was also tasked with returning punts as a rookie. He notched 21 returns for 164 yards while being forced to fair catch 17 times.
Despite his prowess as a return man, Kirk is still hoping to increase his role in the passing game on offense. He has been listed as a starter alongside a couple of proven wide receivers in Larry Fitzgerald and Michael Crabtree. The onus will be on him to prove he is capable of serving as a viable option as the youngest member of the group.
Kirk finished the 2018 campaign with 43 receptions for 590 yards and three touchdowns before suffering a broken foot in Week 13. Although the injury likely raised some concerns about his health while serving on special teams, it is clear that the Cardinals are looking to get the ball in his hands any way they can.
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