Raising Zona
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Arizona Cardinals: 5 players likely leaving this week

By Scott Allen

Dec 18, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; New Orleans Saints offensive tackle Andrus Peat (75) blocks for running back Tim Hightower (34) against Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Calais Campbell (93) at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Saints defeated the Cardinals 48-41. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 18, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; New Orleans Saints offensive tackle Andrus Peat (75) blocks for running back Tim Hightower (34) against Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Calais Campbell (93) at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Saints defeated the Cardinals 48-41. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 11, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Jay Ajayi (23) is unable to make a diving catch in front of Arizona Cardinals strong safety Tony Jefferson (22) during the first half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 11, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Jay Ajayi (23) is unable to make a diving catch in front of Arizona Cardinals strong safety Tony Jefferson (22) during the first half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /

Tony Jefferson

Holding out hope until there is none left appears to be a futile attempt at this point.  What looked like a slight chance for return at this time last week now looks next to impossible.

Cardinals fans can thank the Kansas City Chiefs for breaking the bank, and setting a high ceiling for other free agent safeties, after they signed Eric Berry last week.  The Cardinals quite simply will not be able to afford Jefferson.

While Jefferson continues to say the right things publicly in how he is nervous, how he wants to stay in Arizona, privately he has to know he’s moving on.  Fair or not, that’s again, the business of the NFL.

The Cardinals have an offer on the table for him as well but it won’t be nearly enough.  Jefferson will likely command several more millions per year than the Cardinals can afford.

Jefferson saw a quick rise in his profile with his performances over the last couple of seasons. Whoever picks him up will appear to be overpaying him.  In the end, he may end up being a steal for whoever ends up with his services.

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