Arizona Cardinals: Top Five Defensive Backs in History

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Jan 3, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers running back Fozzy Whittaker (43) runs the ball against Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson (21) during the third quarter in the 2014 NFC Wild Card playoff football game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

4. Adrian Wilson

Wilson was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 2001 in the third round out of North Carolina State. He played 12 seasons with the Cardinals before finishing his career with the New England Patriots in 2013.

Wilson’s longevity with the Cardinals was what endeared him to many fans. To be able to play at the level he did for so long is a testament to his work ethic and talent. Sure, he lost a step or two in his last couple of seasons but made his last Pro Bowl as recently as 2011.

Wilson, who spent most of his time as a strong safety, had 27 interceptions as a Cardinal. He also forced 16 fumbles and recovered eight fumbles. He returned two interceptions and two fumbles for touchdowns in his career.

Best season as a Cardinal: He had five interceptions in 2009 but in 2006 is when he had four interceptions for 156 return yards, including a 99-yard touchdown return. He also had two fumble recoveries, returning one for a touchdown. He also had five sacks in 2006.

Best game as a Cardinal: On October 20, 2002, Wilson intercepted the Dallas Cowboys three times and had one sack in a battle of field goals to beat the Cowboys 9-6. The victory put the Cardinals in first place in the NFC East at 4-2. Unfortunately the Cardinals only won one more time that season.

5. Kwamie Lassiter

Lassiter played his first eight of his 10 NFL seasons with the Cardinals from 1995-2002. He had 24 interceptions in his eight Arizona seasons. Just one interception was returned for a touchdown in his eight years here.

In 1998 and 2001 Lassiter proved his real worth with eight and nine interceptions respectively. His defense was a huge reason why the Cardinals were able to secure their first playoff berth in Arizona in 1998.

Best season as a Cardinal: In 2001 Lassiter showed no signs of slowing with nine interceptions

Best game as a Cardinal: On December 27, 1998, quite possibly the best defensive game for any Cardinal since the move to Arizona in 1988, Lassiter intercepted four passes against the San Diego Chargers to help the Cardinals clinch a wild-card berth in the NFC Playoffs.

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