Arizona Cardinals Worst-Case Scenario: Defensive Line

The Arizona Cardinals defensive line will play a huge part in the effectiveness of the defense

The 2017 offseason was an interesting one for the Arizona Cardinals. Free agency was especially hard for fans, as they had to watch more than one starter depart. The biggest loss was defensive lineman Calais Campbell.

Campbell turned out to be too expensive for the Cardinals, but he will definitely be missed. The two-time Pro Bowler has been one of the best defensive linemen in team history. Last season, he recorded eight sacks, two forced fumbles, three recoveries, an interception, and a touchdown. He has also, over the course of his career, been a fan favorite and locker room leader.

The Cardinals defense has been solid in recent years, and last year were second in the NFL in yards allowed. They were ninth against the run. Unfortunately, their record didn’t reflect it, and they finished under .500.

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If they want to bounce back in 2017, the Cardinals will need to replicate their defensive success. However, they’ll have to do it without Campbell. It won’t be easy.

The Cardinals could really use a big leap forward from former first round draft pick Robert Nkemdiche. His rookie season was pretty much a bust, and questions abound about his commitment.

Things aren’t exactly well-defined for the rest of the line either. Guys like Rodney Gunter, Josh Mauro, and Corey Peters will be asked to be at the top of their games. If they aren’t, it could affect the entire defense, and not in a good way.

One thing a poor defensive line will affect is the secondary. The Cardinals are undergoing a transition at that level, and they could use help from the front line. If the defensive line can’t hold up, the pressure on the weakened secondary might be too much.

A struggling line could also hurt the pass rush. Chandler Jones and Markus Golden had terrific years rushing the passer in 2016. If the line isn’t effective, though, it just makes it increasingly difficult for the pass rushers to thrive.

The run defense, which was good last year, will also be affected. The Cardinals gave up just 3.6 yards per carry in 2016. Linemen who can’t get off blocks will certainly have negative consequences on that number going forward. If offenses are getting more yardage on early downs, it will just make it easier on later downs.

Next: Cardinals Worst-Case Scenario: Defensive Line

The Cardinals, and their fans, are looking forward to a big rebound in 2017. There is plenty of talent, but also many questions about the defensive line. They will need to succeed in order for the team to have a chance at a winning record and the playoffs.