Rob Housler

Housler was brought on during the offseason to help cushion the loss of Jordan Cameron, and will join a crowded group of mediocre tight ends that includes Gary Barnidge, Jim Dray and rookies Malcolm Johnson and Randall Telfer. Standing at 6-foot-5, Housler seemingly has the edge in earning the starting role, having collected nearly twice as many career receiving yards (1,133) as anyone else on the roster at the position. The Florida Atlantic product has been used sparingly in the red zone throughout his career, however, accumulating just 13 targets inside the 20 yardline over his first four seasons combined. Housler actually has more career receptions of 20+ yards than red zone targets, suggesting he does more damage in open space. If offensive coordinator John DeFillipo can find the right balance in the upcoming season, Housler could certainly be a name worth monitoring.

On a team where the top two wide receivers garner a combined 246 targets, it's hard for the tight end to get involved. That's what happened to Housler, who had the same limited-target pace last year as he did in 2012 with a much less stable quarterback situation. His preseason high ankle sprain didn't allow him to take the field until Week 3, and he only boasted two receptions heading into the sixth game of the season. Having Carson Palmer at quarterback certainly benefited him -- his yards per reception and yards per target jumped by two yards -- but playing a significant role in the offense was still difficult. Housler has good size at 6-5, 250 but isn't utilized in the red zone. This year, he could have a more difficult time with the arrival of free agent John Carlson, who likely will see a fair share of targets.

Forty-five receptions for 417 yards are mediocre numbers for a tight end, but considering Arizona's abhorrent quarterback play last season, they’re borderline miraculous. Housler began last season as Todd Heap's backup but finished as the No. 1 tight end in Arizona while Heap dealt with injuries. Heap's now gone, which means Housler has the starting job to himself. The addition of Carson Palmer should bring some stability to the offense, and Housler could see a bump in production. A shoulder injury knocked him out of Week 17, but Housler is expected to be healthy for the start of camp.

Begins the season behind Todd Heap on the depth chart, but he has impressed early in OTA's and training camp. With an increased role in the offense he will look to improve on his 12 catch rookie season.

Housler put his speed on display at the NFL Combine, running a tight end-best 4.55 40-yard dash. A late bloomer, Housler made himself a prospect after starting only one season at Florida Atlantic. The third-round pick could be in a position to contribute, even with veteran Todd Heap ahead of him. Housler will have to improve his blocking, but he's athletic and fast enough to garner serious attention if Heap goes down.