University of Richmond Athletics
Former Spider Tim Hightower Makes NFL Debut Tonight LIVE On ESPN
Aug. 7, 2008
PHOENIX, Ariz. - Former All-American running back Tim Hightower makes his pro debut tonight when his Arizona Cardinals host the New Orleans Saints in a sold-out NFL Preseason game live on ESPN. Hightower, a fifth-round draft choice by the Cardinals in the spring, signed a three-year deal in June. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET.
Hightower was drafted to the Cardinals having to battle five other experienced running backs for roster spots -- veteran starter Edgerrin James, veteran Marcel Shipp, former UMass star Steve Baylark and J.J. Arrington. But Shipp, an eight-year veteran, was released this week, leaving four backs on the roster for tonight's game.
In the backfield, James is the clear starter. Behind him, it's up in the air according to the Cardinals' website.
Wearing jersey No. 34, Hightower has shown flashes in practice, but head coach Ken Whisenhunt has reserved judgment until the former Spider plays in a preseason game. Baylark, who was on the practice squad last season and could return there this year, is in the same position.
Former Cal star Arrington, meanwhile, has been used much more as a third-down, passing-situation back. He has speed and is entering the final season of his rookie contract.
The Cardinals have three more preseason games - Aug. 16 at Kansas City, Aug. 23 at Oakland (with former Spider WR Arman Shields on the roster) and Aug. 29 vs. Denver - before opening the regular season at San Francisco on Sept. 7.