Arizona Cardinals: Revisiting the 2015 draft class

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Sep 13, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Rodney Gunter reacts prior to the game against the New Orleans Saints at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Saints 31-19. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Rodney Gunter, Defensive end

Another solid pick, Rodney Gunter was taken in the fourth round by Arizona. After a season ending injury to Corey Peters, Gunter moved into the starting lineup and filled in admirably. In his first preseason game, Gunter sacked Kansas City quarterback Aaron Murray for a safety. Gunter played in all 16 regular season games and totaled 19 combined tackles and 1 sack.

With more familiarity with defensive coordinator James Bettcher’s schemes, Gunter should be a stud next season. Arizona’s pass rush is one of the team’s weakest aspects and it’s the development of players like Gunter and Golden that can take turn the Cardinals pass rush into a formidable one. Gunter is also expected to get a lot more playing time with Calais Campbell and Frostee Rucker, who Gunter considers his mentors. With these two veterans teaching him the ropes, Gunter is in good hands and should be able to build off of what was a decent rookie season.

Grade: B

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