Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer confirmed that he will be back to play in 2017.
In what seemed inevitable – especially after wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald announced he would play in 2017 – Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer informed team president Michael Bidwill Thursday he too would play this season.
Palmer had, multiple times, said he expected to play this season. But he left some doubt by saying he wanted to first see how his body responded to down time. Health was the major factor for the 37-year-old, who coach Bruce Arians said "got the hell beat out of him this year."
"My intent was to take some time after the season to get away and see where I was physically and mentally," Palmer said. "On both fronts, I can say I'm ready to get back to work and prepare for the 2017 season. This is a
phenomenal group with a very special opportunity in front of it. I know how rare that is and I couldn't be more excited to be a part of it."
Palmer's 2017 salary of $15.5 million becomes fully guaranteed Friday.
Palmer was sacked 40 times – 15 more than in 2015 – and was hit the third-most in the NFL this season.
But Palmer's return always trended toward likely. Even Arians acknowledged that recently when he noted Palmer "said earlier he wanted to play and I think he does."
After the final home game of the 2016 season, Palmer was asked if he was going to play in 2017.
"I haven't even thought about that," Palmer said at the time. "But, I expect to. I'd like to."
Once Fitzgerald committed – a move many believe wouldn't have happened without the confidence Palmer would be his quarterback – Palmer's similar move never felt that far behind.
Palmer missed one game this season due to a concussion. He still set a personal high for pass attempts with 597, completing 364 for 4,233 yards, 26 touchdowns and 14 interceptions.
He is signed through the 2018 season.
Images of QB Carson Palmer.
Carson Palmer and Bruce Arians at an introductory press conference following his trade from the Raiders.
Palmer talks with Kurt Warner.
Palmer signing autographs at training camp.
Palmer in the tunnel before the game.
Palmer chats with Aaron Rodgers after a preseason game.
Palmer with Drew Brees.
Arians and Palmer talk before a game.
Palmer throws to Jim Dray against the 49ers.
Palmer directs traffic against the Rams.
Palmer in the tunnel before a game.
Palmer playing golf in the offseason.
Palmer with a headset, sporting his Movember mustache.
Palmer sacked against the Seahawks.
Palmer on the sidelines.
Palmer running out during introductions.
Palmer celebrates a touchdown against the Titans.
Palmer and Russell Wilson.
Palmer sitting on the bench during a game.
Palmer gets hit by the Panthers.
Palmer catching up with his former college coach, Pete Carroll.
Palmer preparing to hike the ball.
Palmer talking to Lyle Sendlein.
Palmer makes a throw against the Texans.
Palmer passes downfield against the Eagles.
Palmer stretching at training camp.
Palmer throws against the Titans.
