5 breakout stars to watch for Arizona Cardinals in 2020

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - OCTOBER 31: Wide receiver Andy Isabella #89 of the Arizona Cardinals runs for a touchdown after a catch against the San Francisco 49ers during the second half of the NFL football game at State Farm Stadium on October 31, 2019 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Ralph Freso/Getty Images) /

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SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 17: Safety Deionte Thompson #35 of the Arizona Cardinals warms up before the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium on November 17, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /

4. S Deionte Thompson

Deionte Thompson was a fifth round 2019 NFL Draft selection for the Cardinals but he didn’t find much production right away. He was split between defense and special teams, with two starts as a safety in Weeks 2 and 6. Thompson got his most defensive snaps in Week 7 though, appearing in 90 percent of the Cardinals plays. That was his most productive game with four tackles, but he failed to get his hands on the ball all season long.

The former Alabama star will aim to become an every week starter for Arizona, but his ball skills will need to improve. He was targeted five times throughout the season, and all five times the wide receiver made the catch. If Thompson can develop more skills to breakup the pass at the point of attack, he should be able to turn into a starter.

In 2020, that skill will likely be a coaching staff focus for Thompson early, and it will make or break the season for him most likely. There is an opportunity right in front of him, the safety just has to take it.

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