Grading Arizona Cardinals 2014 Draft Class
Nov 9, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver John Brown (12) catches a 48 yard touchdown during the second half against the St. Louis Rams at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
John Brown (Third round)
The Cardinals decision to trade down yielded the 91st overall pick, and the Cardinals used in on a speedy little receiver from Pittsburgh State. So far, Arizona has had no reason to regret it. John Brown has taken his first steps to star status.
When Brown arrived at training camp, coaches and others raved about his skills. After nine games of the season, all the hype has proven true. Brown has 29 catches for 399 yards and five touchdowns, including four game-winners.
His speed has been the asset everyone expected. He’s still got room to improve in some other facets, but he’s made several direct contributions to the Cardinals 8-1 record. So far, he has proven to be a steal of the draft.
Grade: A
Logan Thomas (Fourth round)
Much to the surprise of everyone, fourth round quarterback prospect Logan Thomas has actually played. After Drew Stanton suffered a concussion in Week 5, Thomas was forced to play with little time to learn.. He completed one pass, which Andre Ellington took for a touchdown.
He is, ultimately, everything the Cardinals thought he was. His skills are apparent, but he needs a great deal of work on his mechanics to be a legitimate NFL talent. I won’t be too hard on him though. All of his performance that can be analyzed came with no preparation whatsoever
Grade: C-
Ed Stinson (Fifth round)
Ed Stinson hasn’t moved mountains, but he admirably performed replacing Calais Campbell for a few weeks. Since then, his role has increased and he has shown some likable talent.
He is strong and good against the run, so he fits the Cardinals defensive desires well. He may never get too much recognition for his exploits, but his role as a backup on defense has given him the chance to show that he belongs.