Arizona Cardinals 7 round mock draft, SEC only edition
By Cody Potanko
Despite having a last name that I couldn’t spell until 13 attempts later, Ross Pierschbacher would be a nice fit with the Arizona Cardinals. As a four-year starter, Pierschbacher has experience mixed with success. In 3,370 snaps, per Pro Football Focus, he allowed just 6.0 sacks, 16 quarterback hits, and 30 hurries.
Over his tenure with the Crimson Tide, Pierschbacher has shown good football IQ, as he recognizes blitzes and knows where to go at all times. As a center, Ross doesn’t provide much explosive hitting power, but he’s rock solid. He’s not easily broken down in his sets, and even when he’s not the one who initiates the contact he can show the necessary functional strength to anchor.
As a run-blocker, Pierschbacher shows good pad level and will initiate contact first in these situations. He gets out of his stance best when he’s asked to play forward and will challenge guys with his first step. Although he’s not a prototypical mauler, he should be effective with his cerebral play, technique, and good angling.
Pierschbacher is what you want at the center or interior line. He’s 6-foot-4 and has a 307-pound frame, although he’s not the most athletic, he will win reps with second effort showing heart and the drive to succeed. He’s a high-effort guy and has played well in the biggest moments of college football.
Selecting an interior lineman after adding a tackle isn’t the flashiest or sexiest set of picks, but they are the type of picks that will help win games. Pierschbacher may stick on the roster as depth initially, but if he could improve in his pass protection, don’t be surprised to see him start soon over guys like A.Q. Shipley and Mason Cole at center.