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Arizona Cardinals: Positions to address in the 2017 draft

By Joseph Comeau

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January 1, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson (31) runs the ball against the Los Angeles Rams during the first half at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
January 1, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson (31) runs the ball against the Los Angeles Rams during the first half at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

Offense

Quarterback: Strong likelihood

It’s no secret that the Cardinals need a quarterback of the future. The Cardinals hope they won’t be drafting this early in the first round again anytime soon, so this seems like the year to select a quarterback in the first round. Still, it’s entirely possible that Keim and company could decide the value is not there, and look for veteran options once Palmer retires.

Halfback: Low likelihood

With a number of free agents at the position, there is uncertainty regarding exactly which backs will be on the roster in 2017. Still, between Andre Ellington, Kerwynn Williams, Stepfan Taylor, and Elijhaa Penny – a practice squad player whom Arians has praised – it seems likely that the Cardinals will be able to retain enough backs to fill out the depth chart behind David Johnson.

Still, it would not be shocking if the Cardinals do select a halfback late in the draft, but it would likely be a case in which the value was too good to pass up.

Fullback: Not happening

Arians doesn’t use fullbacks. Period.

Tight end: Low likelihood

If the Cardinals do not re-sign free agent Jermaine Gresham, this could become a strong likelihood. If they do re-sign Gresham, the situation at tight end will probably be very similar to that of halfback – a late round pick if the value is too good to pass up.

Wide receiver: Strong likelihood

What was once considered a position of depth for the Cardinals, is now an area of need. With Floyd gone and Fitzgerald’s retirement looming in the not-too-distant future, the Cardinals need a big, physical receiver to fill the slot in Arians’ offense. There is a good chance the Cardinals will select a receiver within the first three rounds of the draft.

Offensive tackle: Low likelihood

The Cardinals have both of their starting tackles on the roster – though there is some question regarding who will start at left tackle and who will start at right tackle. With other more pressing needs, it seems unlikely that the Cardinals would use a draft pick on a backup tackle.

Offensive guard/center: Moderate likelihood

With Evan Mathis retiring, the starting right guard spot is up for grabs. There are some possibilities in-house, including Evan Boehm. Additionally, Steve Keim has a history of signing mid-tier free agents to start on the interior offensive line. Still, there is a moderate likelihood that the Cardinals will draft an interior lineman, even if it is a late-round project.

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