Cardinals Extend Contracts of Arians & Keim

 

Arians will remain in Arizona. Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas/ USA Today Sports

 
The Arizona Cardinals are keeping their head coach and GM in the field for the long term. 

By: Michel Hanley


Arizona went ahead and extended the contracts of both head coach Bruce Arians and general manager Steve Keim through the 2018 season. It is a sign of great appreciation form the Cardinals brass that they believe and have faith that this duo can take them to winning their first Super Bowl title in franchise history.

Cardinals President Michael Bidwell spoke about retaining both men in their respective positions (via CBS Sports):

 "I speak not only for myself but all Cardinals fans when I say how thrilled we all are that Steve and Bruce are now under contract though 2018," he said.

It is easy to see why  Arizona wanted to keep both for the long term future, their success so far has been incredible. Through two seasons, the Cardinals are 21-11, including making the playoffs last season despite the numerous big time injures they suffered to key positions.

Both Keim and Arians have been excellent at finding and then molding talented young players into the team while also striking a  nice balance with having veteran players on this roster as well who do more than just play football on Sundays. These veterans have been a great benefit to those young players, showing them how to be a professional football player and how to improve their overall game.

Along with Arians and the hard work of his staff, Arizona has been able to build depth and find guys who can step in and get the job done no matter what game situation faces them.  That truly is the mark of  a great franchise and one that will continue to experience success and will elevate themselves to new heights.

Arians is grateful for the new contract extention but knows that he and the team have work to do to achieve their ultimate goal of winning a Super Bowl title:

"You have to get better, you have to work every single day," Arians said. "You can't relax in this business. Like I've always said, it's a real short elevator ride back down. Enjoy [the accolades], but don't ever believe it." 

Cardinals have a real chance to improve upon last season's 11 win campaign and playoff berth. If they can keep everyone healthy, especially QB Carson Palmer, Arizona will be right in the mix  to win the NFC.