Louis Riddick believes AJ Green is back

The story of A.J. Green is one of a former star wide receiver attempting to revive his career with a new team. As he moves on from the Cincinnati Bengals to the Arizona Cardinals, ESPN’s Louis Riddick is a believer in Green’s comeback story.

What I saw from AJ Green at #Cardinals practice today looked like the 2015 version. He was 🔥. AZ has the potential to have top 5 WR group with DHop, AJ, Rondale Moore, Christian Kirk.

— Louis Riddick (@LRiddickESPN) August 18, 2021

Coming off his worst statistical season, the former Georgia Bulldog is receiving rave reviews from camp. Aside from Riddick, NFL Network’s Peter Schrager said Green looked “incredible” when he watched Cardinals’ practice.

Last season, Green started all 16 games for the Bengals for the first time since 2017. However, he only amassed 47 catches and 523 yards, scoring 2 touchdowns. Instead of bringing the wide receiver back for an eleventh season, Cincinnati opted to go with a youth movement at the position.

Now, the Cardinals are more than happy that Green chose to attempt to revive his career in Arizona. After signing a one-year deal worth $8.5 million, the explosive offense led by Kyler Murray could work wonders for the veteran receiver. 

Why did A.J. Green choose the Arizona Cardinals?

While speaking with NFL Network analyst Willie McGinest, the former first round selection didn’t hesitate in detailing what his reasoning was for selecting Arizona.

“For me it was all about the system,” Green said. “Last year was a pretty tough year for me mentally, so coming out, I was looking for a place that fit what I’m good at. I feel like this place was a perfect fit for me.”

While it’s still early, Green has made a strong early impression. If he can stay healthy, Green could continue hearing rave reviews inside Kliff Kingbury’s offense. The team’s receiving corps projects to be one of the league’s best, featuring Green, DeAndre Hopkins, Christian Kirk and Andy Isabella.

“I expect A.J. to have a big year.”

Evidently, A.J. Green is a believer in the Arizona Cardinals offensive potential. He continued, praising Murray and Hopkins, as well as Kingbury. 

“When you have K1 back there (Kyler Murray) and DHop (Deandre Hopkins) on the other side, you already know what he can do,” Green responded. “Then you got Kirk in the slot, so I felt like this system was perfect for me and what I’m used to running.

“The first week of camp I was having fun out here, I feel like I’m getting a grasp on things. Coach Kliff is an unbelievable player’s coach. I’m having fun.”

Typically, NFL players perform the best when they enjoy where they are. While nothing is guaranteed, Green’s revamped passion has caught the eyes of the people who matter. Additionally, Murray raved about Green in an article posted on the official team website in June.

“I expect A.J. to have a big year,” Murray said. “I know a lot of people are sleeping on him . . . a lot of things have been said about him not being able to do it anymore. I’m glad he’s on the team.”

As the Arizona Cardinals look to shock the NFL in 2021, it’s obvious that A.J. Green is on the perfect team to revive his career.