The Arizona Cardinals will be showcasing one of the National Football League’s most impressive contingent of safeties in 2018
The Arizona Cardinals have lost some top-notch safeties over the last couple of offseasons. Tackle-machine Tony Jefferson left as a free agent during the spring of 2017. This past March, the popular Tyrann Mathieu was released and the productive Tyvon Branch wasn’t offered a new contract.
The subtraction of three starting-caliber players, all from the same position, would have a devastating effect on many teams. The Cards’ personnel department, however, has done a tremendous job replacing the departed. In fact, the reinforcements may be an improvement over those who have flown the coop.
Budda Baker, a second-round draft pick in ’17, has catapulted himself into a starting role. The 5’10”, 195 pounder racked up 74 tackles, seven pass breakups and a sack in a part-time role last season. Besides his major contributions on defense, Baker’s stellar special teams play got him voted to the Pro Bowl following his rookie campaign.
Free agent addition Antoine Bethea was also a pleasant surprise last year. The veteran tallied 57 tackles, five interceptions, nine passes defensed and a sack in 15 appearances (six starts). Bethea, despite being 34 years of age, has shown no signs of slowing down.
Arizona’s acquisition of Tre Boston was one of the most underrated signings of the offseason. The 26-year old was spectacular as a Los Angeles Charger a year ago, accumulating 79 tackles, five picks and eight pass breakups. Boston may very well be the best backup safety in the NFL.
The Cardinals have two more safeties who have opened some eyes on their roster, as well. Rudy Ford, a seventh-round pick in ’17, registered an outstanding 17 tackles this preseason. Undrafted rookie Zeke Turner also excelled during the exhibition contests (15 tackles, sack), but his future could possibly be at linebacker.
Fair warning to all pass-catchers who will dare to venture into the center of the Cards’ defensive backfield over the next few months. A group of “Big Red” safeties will be waiting to greet you. Enter at your own risk.