Arizona Cardinals safeties: A 2015 review

2 of 6

Arizona Cardinals strong safety Tony Jefferson (22) intercepts a pass inteded for Baltimore Ravens tight end Crockett Gillmore (80) as free safety Rashad Johnson (26) looks on during the second half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports /

Tony Jefferson

Jefferson played in all 16 games for the Cardinals in 2015. He started seven of them. He had 78 tackles on the season to go along with five passes defensed and two interceptions.

His two interceptions in 2015 though were huge ones. His first went for a pick-six in week two against the Chicago Bears in a tight game at the time before it ended in a blowout. Then his second interception sealed a Monday Night Football victory over quarterback Joe Flacco and the Baltimore Ravens as he intercepted Flacco in the end zone as they were driving for a possible game-tying score.

Jefferson, like Mathieu, was all over the field. After Mathieu exited the season with his injury, Jefferson’s role became even more important.

As for what the future holds for Jefferson in the 2016 season I would have to think more of the same. He’s a restricted free agent but I don’t see any reason why he’s not back in the Arizona defensive secondary in 2016. He has a favorable salary which will likely see a small raise for 2016 and beyond.

Next: Safety or linebacker?

Home/Cardinals News