In what is likely yet another huge blow to the Arizona Cardinals defense, it is being reported that the team believes standout defensive tackle Darnell Dockett tore his ACL during practice on Monday.
Cardinals believe DT Darnell Dockett tore his ACL today, sources tell @FOXSports1. Obviously a tough one for the Cards.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) August 19, 2014
Dockett, a three-time Pro Bowler, has been an anchor in the middle of Arizona’s defensive line for the past 10 seasons. He has started 156 of a possible 159 games during that span and has missed just one game due to injury since being selected in the third round of the 2004 draft out of Florida State.
Dockett recorded 46 tackles and 4.5 sacks for a surprising Cardinals defense in 2013. He joins suspended linebacker Daryl Washington on the sideline for the entire 2014 campaign.
With the talented defensive tackle likely lost for the year, Arizona will look at Frostee Rucker and Bruce Gaston as internal options to fill in as a starter in 2014. You can also fully expect it to test the watered-down free agent market.
Update: The Cardinals have confirmed Dockett’s injury.
MRI on Darnell Dockett right knee reveals torn ACL. Injury will require surgery & is season-ending.
— Mark Dalton (@CardsMarkD) August 19, 2014
Photo: Sportsgrid.com