The Arizona Cardinals had the first of three practices as part of mandatory minicamp and were without a couple of notable players. During the open portion of practice to the media (the first 20 minutes), neither linebacker Chandler Jones nor linebacker Jordan Hicks were on the field.
Jones was in the building on Monday for media day, so he reported for camp but did not practice.
Hicks’ status is not known. He was reportedly given permission to seek a trade after the team drafted linebacker Zaven Collins in the first round and is expected to make him the starter, replacing Hicks.
According to head coach Kliff Kingsbury, neither are expected on the field this week.
He also would not elaborate on their situations, citing what he said last week during OTAs.
“We’ve been in communication with both guys,” he said after practice. “We know the situations and so I’ll leave that dialogue between us.”
It is unknown what exactly Jones’ situation is, although it could be related to his contract. He is entering the final year of his deal and likely wants an extension.
he has not said anything publicly about contract talks or that he is unhappy, but his absence from OTAs and now from minicamp practices looms large.
Is he simply staying off the field so he doesn’t get hurt or is this a legitimate holdout and will it affect training camp in July?
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