Draft Picks Not Contributing Would Be Worst-Case Scenario for Arizona Cardinals
By Jeremy Meek
The Arizona Cardinals need contributions from their rookies right away
The Arizona Cardinals had a very good couple of days the weekend of the NFL Draft. By most accounts, their haul was one of the better ones by any team. They got faster, deeper, and more talented at several spots, and the future looks brighter for it.
It was nice for fans of the franchise to have something to celebrate for a change. The 2016 season was a disaster after being picked by some to be a Super Bowl team. This year’s free agency period didn’t help. The Cardinals lost some key players, including Calais Campbell, Kevin Minter, and Tony Jefferson.
The Cardinals attempt at bouncing back will, in large part, depend on how the team replaces those lost starters. That’s where the draft picks come into play.
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First round selection Haason Reddick could start at inside linebacker right away. If he can’t win the job, that leaves veteran Karlos Dansby as the likely starter. Dansby will be 36 years old during the season, and was largely ineffective last year in Cincinnati.
In round two, Arizona traded up to select safety Budda Baker. Baker, though undersized, has all the traits to be a terrific player, and was considered a first round talent by many. Without him contributing, the safety spot becomes an even bigger question mark. Tyrann Mathieu’s health has been an issue, and Antoine Bethea is soon to be 33 years old. It could be a position of trouble.
Chad Williams was the Cardinals round three pick. The wide receiver has loads of raw talent, but had some character questions that might have pushed him down boards. He likely won’t be asked to start right away, but injuries were an issue last year at receiver. If that happens again, and Williams isn’t ready, the offense could struggle.
The later picks are probably depth guys at first, but could also be quality players. Those first three picks, though, could have big roles, provided they work out.
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The Cardinals needs contributions from their early round selections if they want 2017 to be better than 2016. They added loads of talent. However, if those guys don’t pan out, it could make life difficult for the team and their fans.