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Arizona Cardinals: Last Wave of Free Agency could be Huge

By Isaiah Addair

Oct 5, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Alterraun Verner (21) breaks up a pass intended for New Orleans Saints wide receiver Marques Colston (12) in the first quarter of their game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 5, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Alterraun Verner (21) breaks up a pass intended for New Orleans Saints wide receiver Marques Colston (12) in the first quarter of their game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 13, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; San Francisco 49ers middle linebacker Gerald Hodges (51) tackles Cleveland Browns wide receiver Brian Hartline (83) during the second quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 13, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; San Francisco 49ers middle linebacker Gerald Hodges (51) tackles Cleveland Browns wide receiver Brian Hartline (83) during the second quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

Gerald Hodges, ILB

The signing of Karlos Dansby put the immediate need for inside linebacker on hold. This hold, however, is temporary as Dansby is already a few years into his 30s. The Cardinals will likely look for another MLB in the 2017 Draft, but unless the Cardinals choose a backer at 13th overall, he likely will not play much in his first year.

Hodges, on the other hand, is 26 with 5 years experience. During his five year career, Hodges has displayed his ability to make plays anywhere, if he can stay healthy. In 2014 Hodges recorded 7 passes defensed in only 7 starts.

In 2016 Hodges posted a career high in tackles with 83 total. He also added 3 sacks, 2 passes defensed, and 2 INTs. His time spent at the safety position in college displays the versatility that the Cardinals’ front office loves. If Keim is able to reel in Gerald Hodges on a cheap deal, he could be the young, every-down inside ‘backer that the Cardinals so desperately need to pair with Bucannon.

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