2013 Preview: Arizona Cardinals Defensive Secondary
By Scott Allen
Dec. 16, 2012; Glendale, AZ, USA: Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson (21) breaks up a pass intended for Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson (81) in the first quarter at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
As we head into this week’s NFL Scouting Combine, teams are preparing for April’s 2013 NFL Draft. The Arizona Cardinals have needs in several areas and some others they are doing alright in. However, we are going to take a look at a position by position look at the Cardinals and see what lies ahead for 2013 and what the needs are, if any. Next up, the defensive secondary.
This is a tough position to make a call on. While in some eyes the Cards corners and safeties are solid and can get the job done, some others might consider them overrated. Some are aging and might be gone, like Adrian Wilson. Some might be lost to free agency like Greg Toler. Some are definitely stars in the making like Patrick Peterson.
Star/Perennial Pro Bowler: Patrick Peterson
Solid/Serviceable: Greg Toler, Adrian Wilson, Kerry Rhodes, Justin Bethel, Rashad Johnson, Michael Adams
On the Bubble: Jamell Fleming, William Gay, James Sanders
Draft/season outlook: If they lose Toler, the Cards could be looking earlier in the draft for another corner. Jonathan Banks from Mississippi State or Jordan Poyer from Oregon State are a couple of possible second rounders that come to mind. They could go later in the draft and take a chance on the Honey Badger, Tyrann Mathieu, however that’s taking a huge risk given his personal baggage. It will be interesting to see how they handle the likely departure of Wilson. There aren’t a ton of good looking safeties in the draft. Free agency could be a possibility if Wilson is in fact done in Arizona.