Arizona Cardinals secondary could use Darrelle Revis
By Jim Koch
While he may not be the great cornerback he once was Darrelle Revis could still help the Arizona Cardinals defense in 2017
Another NFL offseason is here, and once again the Arizona Cardinals need assistance at cornerback. Without a lot of salary cap space to work with, the Cards may need to get creative in their search for one. A veteran that was recently released by the New York Jets could fit that bill.
Darrelle Revis, one of the most celebrated corners in league history, is looking for work. On paper, a starting duo of Revis and Patrick Peterson looks like a match made in heaven. Would signing the former first-round draft pick be a possibility for Arizona?
Unfortunately, there would be risks in doing so. For one, Revis is facing legal troubles and a possible suspension from the NFL, stemming from an incident last month. He allegedly assaulted two men who were filming him with a cellphone on a Pittsburgh street, and charges are pending.
There are also whispers that Revis’ better days may be behind him. 2016 was easily the worst season of his career. He gave up countless big plays over the course of the campaign, and recorded just one interception and a measly five pass breakups.
More from Raising Zona
- Arizona Cardinals: Could Eric Bieniemy come to the desert?
- Would Jonathan Gannon be a good fit for the Arizona Cardinals?
- Arizona Cardinals: Budda Baker right in his take regarding the next coach
- Arizona Cardinals: 3 reasons new coach should want to work with Murray
- Arizona Cardinals special teams could be completely revamped in 2023
But at the same time, it’s the negatives that could put the Cardinals in the running for acquiring him. The red flags associated with the seven-time Pro Bowler will most likely hurt his bargaining leverage. Perhaps General Manager Steve Keim could devise a contract that is salary cap-friendly for Arizona, and acceptable to Revis.
Talk of Revis’ career being shot may be exaggerated. He’s 31-years old, which is anything but ancient for his position. He’s also just one year removed from a solid season in 2015, when he tallied 39 tackles, five picks and nine passes defensed.
There have also been discussions concerning Revis switching positions. With the possible departures of free agents Tony Jefferson and D.J. Swearinger, the club may also be in the market for a safety. Perhaps Revis could be a replacement for one of them if it was determined in training camp that his days as a corner are over.
Signing Revis may not be as far-fetched as it sounds. The biggest hurdle may be the legal troubles that will need to be worked out. If they are, then Keim should certainly look into bringing the talented defensive back to the desert.