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Arizona Cardinals: UCLA quarterback could be possibility

By Jim Koch

PASADENA, CA - OCTOBER 01: Josh Rosen PASADENA, CA - OCTOBER 01: Josh Rosen #3 of the UCLA Bruins walks off the field after defeating the Arizona Wildcats 45-24 in a game at the Rose Bowl on October 1, 2016 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
PASADENA, CA - OCTOBER 01: Josh Rosen PASADENA, CA - OCTOBER 01: Josh Rosen #3 of the UCLA Bruins walks off the field after defeating the Arizona Wildcats 45-24 in a game at the Rose Bowl on October 1, 2016 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /
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NFL Draft rumors are running rampant, and it now appears as if UCLA quarterback Josh Rosen could tumble to the Arizona Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals have been on the minds of many prognosticators these days. The fact that the club is in need of a quarterback who can lead them into the future has created loads of interest. Many pundits claim to know what the Cards are thinking, but general manager Steve Keim has not tipped his hand.

Just a couple of days ago, Sports Illustrated’s Peter King reported that Arizona is in love with Oklahoma signal-caller Baker Mayfield. The respected football writer’s latest mock draft has Keim trading up to nab the talented gunslinger. The targeted slot being eyed by the Cardinals in that scenario is the Denver Broncos’ fifth-overall selection.

Another option is also presenting itself. There’s been some talk that UCLA passer Josh Rosen’s stock could be falling a bit. It’s unlikely that the junior would tumble all the way to the Cards at #15, but he could possibly be available somewhere that’s more within their reach in a trade-up situation.

If Rosen were to fall to the 10th-overall pick, for example, Keim would then need to jump up just five slots. That would be a significantly-less costly move than going up to the Broncos’ selection at number five. The Oakland Raiders currently own the 10th pick, and are set at quarterback with Derek Carr.

There are some who feel that Rosen lacks the leadership skills it takes to succeed as a professional. Durability concerns are also an issue. Rosen underwent shoulder surgery in 2016 as a sophomore, and suffered a couple of concussions last season.

Even so, the positives may outweigh the negatives. Rosen’s mechanics are excellent, his accuracy is stellar, and his ability to go through his progressions is exceptional. During his three campaigns in the PAC-12, the 6’3″, 218 pounder threw for 9,339 yards and tossed 59 touchdown passes.

Next: Arizona Cardinals have found success in fifth round

It’s about time that Keim lands a franchise quarterback. The issue probably should’ve been addressed by now, but it’s never too late. Rosen could very well be the guy that Arizona fans have been waiting patiently for their team to acquire.

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