Arizona Cardinals: Defensive Pro Bowl candidates
Patrick Peterson, Cornerback
Oct 18, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson (21) returns a kick-off against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
The unquestioned leader of the No Fly Zone is quietly having a great season. Peterson is also a big part of the reason that the Arizona Cardinals defense is ranked third in yards allowed and first in interceptions Peterson is the first of many defensive players from the Cardinals who deserve to be named to the Pro Bowl roster. In addition to leading one of the best defenses in the league, Peterson has also helped shutdown some of the best wide receivers in the league including Antonio Brown and Calvin Johnson.
In 45 coverage snaps vs Seattle, Patrick Peterson was thrown at just once. Incomplete.
— PFF (@PFF) November 16, 2015
Tyrann Mathieu, Safety
Oct 26, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals safety Tyrann Mathieu (right) breaks up a pass intended for Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Chris Givens in the second quarter at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Having the best season of his career so far, the Honey Badger Tyrann Mathieu is a no brainer to make the Pro Bowl. While he is officially listed as a safety, he has played a majority of his snaps at corner back. Through nine games this season, Mathieu has accumulated 52 total tackles, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble and three interceptions and is not done yet. Recently, Pro Football Focus ranked Mathieu as the second best cornerback in the league and is a major reason for the Arizona Cardinals being ranked the third best defense in the league.
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Calais Campbell, Defensive end
Nov 1, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Josh McCown (13) throws the ball over Arizona Cardinals defensive end Calais Campbell (93) during the first quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Campbell’s first Pro Bowl selection was long overdue, however the Arizona Cardinals captain won’t have to wait nearly as long for his second appearance. Since he is listed as defensive tackle, Campbell will find it much easier for him to be a Pro Bowler since he won’t have to compete with the likes of J.J. Watt, Robert Quinn, DeMarcus Ware and others. While his sack numbers are lower than usual this season, Campbell leads ALL defense lineman with 43 total tackles.