Arizona Cardinals 2017 NFL Draft: RaisingZona Staff Projections
By Jeremy Meek
Finding quality players in round four could keep the Cardinals in contention
Vance Meek – Ethan Pocic, OL: The Cardinals could use some depth on the interior of the offensive line. AQ Shipley starts at center, but is over 30, and they don’t have a sure thing at right guard. Pocic can play either spot, and has played tackle as well. A guy who can start at one position and back up all along the line is a valuable player.
Jim Koch – Nathan Peterman, QB: After North Carolina’s Mitch Trubisky isn’t available at the 13th overall pick, Keim takes a flier on Peterman. He’s slightly undersized (6’2″, 225), but has good arm strength, toughness and mobility.
Joseph Comeau – Jeremy Sprinkle, TE: Though the Cardinals signed tight end Jermaine Gresham to a four-year extension, there is still need for depth at the position. Coach Arians places an emphasis on run blocking with his tight ends, and Jeremy Sprinkle fits the bill. He has the frame and toughness to be an effective and willing blocker, but also has adequate skills as a receiver. With some development, Sprinkle could be an upgrade over the departed Darren Fells.
Isaiah Addair – Josh Reynolds, WR: Just as I said in my “Mock Draft 2.0”, Reynolds could be a solid Fitz replacement if he can stay out of trouble off the field (he was suspended one game in 2016). He has the big body the Cardinals need, and he is faster than most his size. Could Reynolds be another mid-to-late round WR pickup by Keim and company?
Joseph Vasquez – Jessamine Dunker, G: Dunker is big athletic guard, and could be a valuable run blocker with his quick feet and long arms.