Former Arizona Cardinals center A.Q. Shipley is set to embark on a new chapter in his career, transitioning from the gridiron to the broadcast booth. Shipley has been named the Arizona Cardinals' new radio color analyst, replacing Ron Wolfley, who retired after an impressive 20 seasons. This exciting announcement marks a significant moment for Shipley, who spent a considerable portion of his 12-year NFL career with the Cardinals.
Shipley's connection to Arizona runs deep. He cherishes his memories with the team and has forged lasting bonds with former teammates. He fondly recalls building friendships with linemen like Justin Pugh, Jared Veldeer, Mike Iupati, and Earl Watford, and still enjoys vacations with quarterbacks Carson Palmer and Drew Stanton. The Valley remains home for Shipley and his family, solidifying his commitment to the Cardinals community.
Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill expressed his enthusiasm for Shipley's new role, praising his football acumen. "Great guy, knows the game so well," Bidwill stated. "When you think about the positions that have to know the game … center is super important, and A.Q. is so smart. I think he’s going to do a great job of translating the game and filling those big cleats of Ron Wolfley."
Shipley is eager to bring his unique perspective to the broadcast. He plans to provide insights into the intricacies of offensive line play, explaining complex concepts in an accessible manner. He aims to break down plays so that even casual fans can understand the nuances of the game. He will be joining play-by-play announcer Dave Pasch and sideline reporter Paul Calvisi, seasoned veterans of the Cardinals broadcast team.
In addition to his radio duties, Shipley will also serve as a brand ambassador for the Cardinals organization, making appearances on team TV shows and podcasts. Cardinals fans can look forward to hearing Shipley's analysis during the preseason opener against the Kansas City Chiefs on August 9th. The game will be broadcast on Arizona Sports 98.7.
What to Expect from A.Q. Shipley in the Booth
Shipley's experience as a center, a position that demands a deep understanding of the game, will undoubtedly enrich the broadcast. His ability to dissect plays and communicate complex strategies in a clear and engaging manner will be a valuable asset to the Cardinals radio team.
Shipley's NFL Career Highlights
- 12 years in the NFL
- Played for the Steelers, Eagles, Colts, Ravens, Buccaneers, and Cardinals
- Spent five seasons with the Cardinals (2015-2019)
- Started at center for the Cardinals in three seasons