PHX Reporter

Last season, Hjalte Froholdt played center for the Cardinals, but his future in that position was uncertain. Before joining the team, Froholdt spent most of his career as a guard with limited experience at center. Even during training camp, there were questions about whether he could start all season.

However, there was a vision for the Danish lineman. "We felt like we had some inside intel with (offensive coordinator) Drew (Petzing) and (quarterbacks coach) Israel (Woolfork) being there and (head strength and conditioning coach) Evan Marcus being there with them," said coach Jonathan Gannon. "They all jumped on the table and said 'This guy is going to do that. All he needs to do is play.'"

Froholdt secured the starting role last year and maintained it throughout the season. He started every game for the Cardinals and was credited with keeping the line stable against challenging defenses.

While Froholdt tries not to consider the starting role as guaranteed to avoid complacency, focusing solely on one position during the offseason has provided him with a different approach. "It helps with figuring out your pace whenever there is a guy an inch from you compared to a guard where the pace is a little bit different since he might line up a little bit wider," Froholdt explained.

The change in tempo and stance in run and pass protections are other differences Froholdt is concentrating on during training camp. "It's been nice to just stick to one thing instead of learning all three and having to perform at all of them," he added.

Froholdt also mentioned the benefit of having Evan Brown, an interior lineman who appears to be the leading candidate for starting left guard, by his side. Brown also has experience playing center.

Entering the final year of his contract with the Cardinals, Froholdt expressed contentment with his current situation but acknowledged that it depends on his role within the team. "Playing pretty much every snap last year has definitely helped me to find out where I want to be at," he said.

With training camp taking place near State Farm Stadium, players stay at The Wigwam resort nearby. Coach Jonathan Gannon keeps his office door open regardless of location. "I'm a no shut-door guy," Gannon stated. "The players are the game, and the best part of the job are the players."

Gannon's approach stems from his experiences with various coaches throughout his career in football. He values staying connected with players over closing his door for more work time.

Thursday's practice marked one of nine open practices for fans as part of NFL's Back Together Weekend. Sunday's practice will be exclusive to Cardinals season ticket holders.

"Maybe nobody more than me loves when fans are out there," Gannon remarked. "They'll give you energy and juice man, so we look forward to having people out here as much as we can."