5 available free agents that can help the Arizona Cardinals win-now
By Avery Duncan
Morris Claiborne – CB
The Cardinals recently brought Morris Claiborne in for a visit along with Tramaine Brock. But, they didn’t end up signing him; instead, they went the way of the latter. With the six-game suspension of Patrick Peterson now in our minds, Claiborne may have a fit with the Cardinals, despite their drafting of Byron Murphy.
Adding Claiborne depends on if the Cardinals view Murphy or Brock as day-one starters for the team. Which they very well could. Murphy was one of the most highly coveted cornerbacks heading into the 2019 NFL Draft, while Brock was once a high-level starter for the 49ers.
But, if they don’t view either as their interim Peterson replacement, Claiborne would be a solid addition to pair with recently signed Robert Alford. Though the former No. 6 overall pick never lived up to his pre-draft hype, he’s the best cornerback still on the market. He’s just 29 years old and gave the Jets solid play in both the outside and in the slot.
Claiborne finished the 2018 season as Pro Football Focus‘ 75th ranked cornerback with a 62.7 grade. However, in the same season, he tallied a career-high 14 pass deflections to go along with 57 tackles and two interceptions. Claiborne also has a familiarity with Patrick Peterson as the two played together at LSU.
Again, signing the LSU product would be a method to negate the loss of Peterson. Murphy looks to be the team’s long-term replacement, but he may need a while to develop. But, even if the rookie ends up starting week-one, Claiborne could be a pleasant addition as the team’s nickel cornerback — a position they haven’t found their sure-fire starter at.