Robert Nkemdiche learning what NFL football ‘is all about,’ says Bruce Arians
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There’s a firm learning curve when it comes to the jump from college football to the NFL.
Former Ole Miss defensive lineman Robert Nkemdiche, who was selected in the first round of the 2016 draft by the Arizona Cardinals, was not exempt from this notion.
But now that the rookie tackle has had over half a year to adjust to the heightened expectations, coach Bruce Arians believes things have finally clicked with Nkemdiche, who is “proving he’s ready to play.”
“He’s learned what professional football is all about,” Arians said, via ESPN.com. “You’re a highly-recruited guy and you go into the SEC as one of the top players, you don’t necessarily have to be a pro or work hard because you’re more talented than everybody. When you get here, you’re just another guy so you have to learn all that, and it’s a shock to some of them. They have to learn to be a pro on and off the field.”
Nkemdiche has appeared in five games for the Cardinals this season, receiving 25 snaps in their recent loss to the New Orleans Saints last Sunday — his first time being featured in the lineup since Oct. 30.
Those who watched Nkemdiche in college understand what he’s is capable of if he chooses to reach his potential.
Tyler Waddell is a member of the Saturday Down South news team. He brings over five years of professional journalism experience and is closing in on a Bachelor's in sports management. Follow him on Twitter (@Tyler_Waddell).
