Gardeck has come out of nowhere to become one of the Cardinals’ major contributors.
Dennis Gardeck has transitioned from UDFA (2018) to a household name–to NFL fans in Arizona, at least. That’s because Gardeck has become one of the most effective, productive, and efficient players in the league. He has seven sacks in 2020 in fewer than 100 snaps. Only 100 snaps? Well, Gardeck didn’t play much during Weeks 1-4.
It was too easy to look at Gardeck’s deficiencies rather than size up his potential. Potential? Gardeck has turned himself into one helluva football player!
Despite being just 6’0,” Gardeck’s punch makes up for his lack of size. And it’s why DC Vance Joseph has him lining up as a defensive tackle–even though he’s listed as an outside linebacker. Gardeck’s low center of gravity gives offensive linemen all kinds of trouble because he gets low and evades blockers. Opposing linemen often end up blocking Gardeck’s shoulders as opposed to his chest. And with a phenomenal knee bend, Gardeck has an impressive tackle range for a small player.
Then, there’s Gardeck’s speed. He’s particularly effective at coming off the edge, swiping offensive linemen quickly, and penetrating the pocket. That speed also means he’s able to contain mobile quarterbacks. Against the Eagles, for example, Jalen Hurts escaped the pocket several times, but Gardeck’s speed saved the defense from conceding big plays. It’s no surprise, then, that Gardeck is sometimes deployed as a delayed blocker/spy.
When you add it all together, no wonder Gardeck is called ‘The Barbarian!”
The Cardinals love Gardeck’s on-field production, versatility, and unique skillset. What’s more, Joseph has deployed Gardeck everywhere in the front seven and has even used him as a gadget piece. He’s a captain now, too, leader of the Cardinals’ special teams. Flush with charisma and energy–and replete with a crazy ‘sack dance’–Gardeck adds a lot to the Cardinals’ team chemistry.
That’s saying something for a player whose name you may have never heard. But take it from me: pay attention to Gardeck the next time you watch Arizona play. I think you’ll be surprised by just how good he is.
Remember the name Dennis Gardeck.
