Interesting Names Available if Arizona Cardinals So Desire
By Jim Koch
Now that the NFL Draft has come and gone, it’s time for the Arizona Cardinals to fill in the blanks with veteran free agents
The Arizona Cardinals could still use some help. The first (and second) phase of free agency came and went, as did the NFL Draft. Holes were filled, but the 2017 Cardinals remain an unfinished product.
Even in the month of May, there are still free agents available that could make the Cards a better football club. Of course, anyone still unemployed at this point probably has a red flag or two attached to them. However, if a front office is willing to search, a gem or two may be found.
There’s very little experience behind starter David Johnson at running back. Chris Johnson, who’s been with Arizona the last two seasons, is still seeking work. Another back, 33-year old DeAngelo Williams, is still productive and would also be a fine addition.
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Word has leaked that head coach Bruce Arians has a fondness for an unrestricted free agent quarterback, Blaine Gabbert. Gabbert, 27, could be thought of as the post-Carson Palmer bridge to the future. Or thought of AS the future, as hard as that would be to believe.
Wide receiver Chad Williams, the Cardinals’ 2017 third-round draft choice, brings some much-needed size to the position at 6’1″, 204. But there’s also a “big” free agent receiver waiting for a call, someone the organization is extremely familiar with. Anquan Boldin, a former Cardinal, would give Palmer another physical option, one who can still find the end zone (eight touchdowns in 2016).
Arizona added two offensive lineman during the draft, and also a free agent (Tony Bergstrom). But their backups have very little starting experience. Seven-time Pro Bowler Nick Mangold would offer experienced depth at both the center and guard positions.
Despite losing Calais Campbell in free agency, management has made no additions to the defensive line this offseason. Free agent Vance Walker is by no means on Campbell’s level, but nevertheless would be a solid rotational player. The 30-year old tallied 33 tackles and two sacks last season.
The biggest surprise so far this offseason has to be the Cards’ refusal to add a significant body at cornerback. That’s not to say it couldn’t still happen. There are veteran corners still seeking employment, and the Cardinals could certainly use some insurance opposite Patrick Peterson.
Darrelle Revis is the biggest name still available, and would be a solid pickup. Alterraun Verner is still relatively young at 28-years old, and has had seven solid campaigns in the NFL. Tracy Porter would bring experience with him to the desert, and has started 28 games over the last two years.
Next: Cardinals on the Roster Bubble
General manager Steve Keim’s track record indicates that he’s not finished adding to the upcoming season’s roster. Summertime acquisitions during Keim’s tenure include John Abraham, Eric Winston, Tommy Kelly, Chris Johnson, Jermaine Gresham and Mike Jenkins. Arizona fans are waiting to see what surprises their GM has in store for them this summer.