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http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2014/08/07/nfc-pivotal-players/13715431/
Pivotal players to watch in the NFC in 2014
NFC WEST
Arizona Cardinals — LT Jared Veldheer: QB Carson Palmer went down a career-high 41 times in 2013. His lead feet won't make many pass rushers miss, and he also has to hang in the pocket for relatively long periods while many of Bruce Arians' deep-strike plays unfold. Veldheer struggled with the Oakland Raiders in 2013 while returning from a torn triceps. But he's armed with a healthy arm and big contract and should anchor the left side along with 2013 first-round G Jonathan Cooper. Also watch RB Andre Ellington
St. Louis Rams — WR Tavon Austin: Outside of a three-TD explosion against the Indianapolis Colts, Austin had an unexpectedly forgettable rookie season. Lacking playmakers, the Rams need a quantum leap in Year 2, and Austin sounds ready to announce his presence both out of the slot and on special teams. Expect a lot more short darts and even a few handoffs to come his way as St. Louis looks to exploit his run-after-catch gifts. Also watch LB Alec Ogletree
San Francisco 49ers — QB Colin Kaepernick: Is there a more physically talented quarterback in the league? Kaep runs like a gazelle and throws like a howitzer. But he still lacks touch and accuracy and would be wise to start relying less on his legs and more on his third and fourth reads. With a better supporting cast but potentially depleted defense, the Niners' Super Bowl hopes may rely on Kaepernick taking his game up another notch. Also watch S Eric Reid
Seattle Seahawks — WR/KR Percy Harvin: After missing most of his first year in Seattle, he's the champs' biggest de facto addition to the lineup in 2014. With Golden Taint gone, Harvin will doubtless be QB Russell Wilson's No. 1 target, and his effectiveness on jet sweeps could lighten the load (and defensive box) for RB Marshawn Lynch. A healthy Harvin should equate to a very healthy bid for a Super Bowl repeat. Also watch CB Byron Maxwell
Pivotal players to watch in the NFC in 2014
NFC WEST
Arizona Cardinals — LT Jared Veldheer: QB Carson Palmer went down a career-high 41 times in 2013. His lead feet won't make many pass rushers miss, and he also has to hang in the pocket for relatively long periods while many of Bruce Arians' deep-strike plays unfold. Veldheer struggled with the Oakland Raiders in 2013 while returning from a torn triceps. But he's armed with a healthy arm and big contract and should anchor the left side along with 2013 first-round G Jonathan Cooper. Also watch RB Andre Ellington
St. Louis Rams — WR Tavon Austin: Outside of a three-TD explosion against the Indianapolis Colts, Austin had an unexpectedly forgettable rookie season. Lacking playmakers, the Rams need a quantum leap in Year 2, and Austin sounds ready to announce his presence both out of the slot and on special teams. Expect a lot more short darts and even a few handoffs to come his way as St. Louis looks to exploit his run-after-catch gifts. Also watch LB Alec Ogletree
San Francisco 49ers — QB Colin Kaepernick: Is there a more physically talented quarterback in the league? Kaep runs like a gazelle and throws like a howitzer. But he still lacks touch and accuracy and would be wise to start relying less on his legs and more on his third and fourth reads. With a better supporting cast but potentially depleted defense, the Niners' Super Bowl hopes may rely on Kaepernick taking his game up another notch. Also watch S Eric Reid
Seattle Seahawks — WR/KR Percy Harvin: After missing most of his first year in Seattle, he's the champs' biggest de facto addition to the lineup in 2014. With Golden Taint gone, Harvin will doubtless be QB Russell Wilson's No. 1 target, and his effectiveness on jet sweeps could lighten the load (and defensive box) for RB Marshawn Lynch. A healthy Harvin should equate to a very healthy bid for a Super Bowl repeat. Also watch CB Byron Maxwell