Window shopping for the 2017 Arizona Cardinals
By Jim Koch
With their own 2017 free agent list a mile long the Arizona Cardinals may look outside the organization for reinforcements
With the 2016 season reaching the halfway point, the weaknesses of the Arizona Cardinals are transparent. But unless they make a trade before the deadline, the team’s roster is pretty much set for this year’s run. Next offseason is another story.
Scouring the free agent list for 2017 yielded quite a few interesting names. There is a possibility that some of the names will be re-signed before free agency arrives. But if not, some good football players will be available.
The following are a few that would certainly look good in Cardinal red next season .
CB Trumaine Johnson – The big, talented corner is playing under the franchise tag this season after failing to sign a long-term deal. It’s possible the Los Angeles Rams will use the tag on him again. With current Cards’ starter Marcus Cooper also a free agent, the front office should pounce if Johnson is available.
TE Martellus Bennett- The club has not had a bona fide tight end for many years now. With his huge size and soft hands, Bennett would be a fantastic addition. There may not be room for two high-paid tight ends in New England, so Bennett may have to leave.
ILB Lawrence Timmons- Kevin Minter is off to a great start season, and may look to cash in if his solid play continues. Head coach Bruce Arians knows Timmons from their days in the “Steel City”. Although he’s now 30 years old, Timmons should have a few seasons left in the tank.
KR Cordarrelle Patterson- While Patterson has disappointed as a wide receiver, he’s averaging almost 30 yards a kick return this season. That’s an impressive number, especially for an Arizona squad that has flat out sucked on returns since Arians arrived. Patterson could fill a huge hole and will probably come relatively cheap.
G Kevin Zeitler- With the retirement of right guard Evan Mathis looming, Zeitler would be a fine replacement. The front office already has found success in free agency with offensive lineman Jared Veldheer and Mike Iupati. Zeitler is a talented, young player just entering his prime.
CB Stephon Gilmore- As with the Rams’ cornerback Johnson, Gilmore has a load of talent and good size. And like Johnson, he may also be slapped with the franchise tag. “Shutdown” cornerbacks are hard to come by, and Gilmore without a doubt fits that bill.