Arizona Cardinals 2017 NFL Draft: RaisingZona Staff Projections

Arizona Cardinals GM Steve Keim Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Arizona Cardinals GM Steve Keim Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports /

Sixth round players are rarely Tom Brady-like, but can contribute to a team

Vance Meek – Zane Gonzalez, K: Special teams were an adventure last year. The Cardinals signed Phil Dawson, but they could use a young kicker to battle for the kicker spot. Gonzalez is the best kicker in the draft.

Jim Koch – Brendan Langley, CB: Arizona takes a shot on a small school cornerback who led the Southland Conference with six picks in 2016. Langley has good size (6’0″, 199) and excels in press coverage, ideal traits for the Cards’ defensive scheme.

Joseph Comeau – Isaiah McKenzie, WR: The Cardinals like small, fast receivers, and Coach Arians has indicated that he would like to find a return specialist. Wide receiver Isaiah McKenzie has questions as a receiving prospect, but his speed and return ability could entice the Cardinals.

Isaiah Addair – Nico Siragusa, G: As much as I hope Keim goes after Jahri Evans in free agency, they may end up drafting a guard instead. Siragusa is more of a run-blocker, as he blocked for small running back Donnel Pumphrey the past few seasons. With a year or two to learn behind Iupati, he would likely become a frequent player once Mahomes takes over (if Siragusa ever plays frequently).

Joseph Vasquez – Travis Rudolph, WR: Rudolph is a receiver that can catch a deep ball one play, and block effectively the next. He is strong and runs good routes.