Isaiah Adams dominated the Cardinals’ preseason opener, earning the nod as the night’s most outstanding player after Arizona beat Kansas City 20-17. The right guard, entering year two, showed off added polish in pass protection and remained a force in the run game at 6’4”, 315 pounds, building a compelling case to lock down the starting spot despite Will Hernandez’s return.
The performance is meaningful for fantasy managers because a stable interior line can unlock both the ground attack and play-action timing, boosting quarterback and backfield efficiency. If Adams sustains this level into the regular season, Arizona’s offensive line could become a quietly valuable source of consistency and upside, particularly in run-heavy or boot-action schemes. Hernandez’s veteran presence could push Adams to a higher floor, while opening avenues for team-wide improvements as the offense grows in Year 2 under Jonathan Gannon.
One preseason game isn’t a prophecy, but Adams’ climb from camp to lights indicates a potentially pivotal season arc for the Cardinals’ interior line. Fantasy players should monitor depth-chart movements and any continued Bryan-motion or zone-blocking look that underscores Adams’ ability to anchor the right side. If he holds the job, the Cardinals’ run efficiency and play-action effectiveness could trend up in the early weeks of the season.
