Arizona Cardinals solve dilemma with cornerback acquisition

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - DECEMBER 23: Robert Alford #23 of the Atlanta Falcons indicates a first down against the Carolina Panthers in the fourth quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on December 23, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - DECEMBER 23: Robert Alford #23 of the Atlanta Falcons indicates a first down against the Carolina Panthers in the fourth quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on December 23, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /
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Veteran Robert Alford is the best number-two cornerback that the Arizona Cardinals have employed in the past five seasons

The Arizona Cardinals have done it. For years, fans of the club have been clamoring for them to obtain a top-notch, number-two cornerback. The slot across from perennial Pro Bowler Patrick Peterson has been filled with nothing but band-aids for quite some time now.

Arizona’s signing of veteran cover guy Robert Alford has put that problem in the rear-view mirror. The club announced that they’ve agreed to a three-year, $22.5 million contract with the former Atlanta Falcon. It’s a deal that includes $13.5 million in guaranteed money.

Kudos to Cards’ general manager Steve Keim for moving so quickly. Alford had been released by Atlanta just two days ago. The Cardinals’ front office saw an oppurtunity to fill a major hole in their defense, and they pounced.

Alford is Arizona’s best number-two corner since 2014, when Antonio Cromartie roamed the defensive backfield. Since then, several candidates have attempted to solidify the post. Marcus Cooper, Tramon Williams, Jamar Taylor and Bene Benwikere have all registered starts at the spot over the past few seasons.

The 5’10,186 pound Alford has played in 88 games as a professional, starting in 76 of them. The Louisiana native has tallied some impressive numbers during his NFL career. Alford has racked up 295 tackles, 10 interceptions and an eye-popping 85 passes defensed in six pro campaigns.

Alford is an excellent addition to a Cards defense that’s in desperate need of a turnaround. The 30-year old joins a secondary that includes Peterson, Budda Baker, D.J. Swearinger and Antoine Bethea. On paper, a group that is possibly among the best in the league.

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It’s a month before the start of free agency, and the Cardinals have already addressed a big-time need. The organization obviously wants to get back on the winning track. The signing of Alford is certainly a step in the right direction.