NFL: 2017 quarterback power rankings for every team

NFL 2017 quarterback power rankings for every team

ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 22: Matt Ryan #2 of the Atlanta Falcons speaks to Aaron Rodgers #12 of the Green Bay Packers after the NFC Championship Game at the Georgia Dome on January 22, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Falcons defeated the Packers 44-21. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /

17 of 33

PHILADELPHIA, PA – DECEMBER 1: Defensive end Brandon Graham #55 of the Philadelphia Eagles sacks quarterback Carson Palmer #3 of the Arizona Cardinals in the third quarter during a game at Lincoln Financial Field on December 1, 2013 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Eagles defeated the Cardinals 24-21. (Photo by Rich Schultz /Getty Images) /

32. . Carson Palmer. . Arizona Cardinals. 17. team

The Arizona Cardinals’ chances in the NFC West, and into the playoffs, will live and die by the health of quarterback Carson Palmer.

When healthy, Palmer has been one of the better quarterbacks in the NFL. But at 37 years old, the oft-injured Palmer’s long-term prognosis doesn’t look good.

One of his favorite weapons, wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, is aging too. How effective he’ll be this upcoming season is also a major X-factor to consider. And while having running back David Johnson in the backfield should help the offense, overall, Palmer is clearly the linchpin here.

While their defense remains stout enough to contend for a playoff spot, the Cardinals are hoping they can milk just a small amount of high-level ability out of Palmer’s body this upcoming season.