3. The offensive line
The Cardinals did upgrade the offensive line in the off-season. They signed guards J.R. Sweezy and Max Garcia, traded for tackle Marcus Gilbert, and drafted intriguing prospects, Lamont Gaillard and Joshua Miles. But is it enough?
Probably not. Though Gilbert and Sweezy are upgrades, neither will take an offensive line that’s allowed 50+ sacks in back-to-back years over the top. This is why many would’ve liked to see the Cardinals take a pass-protector, Cody Ford, Jawaan Taylor, or Dalton Risner, over the talented Byron Murphy at No. 33 overall.
The Cardinals current, veteran-laden starting line should look something like this:
- LT: D.J. Humphries
- LG: J.R. Sweezy
- C: A.Q. Shipley
- RG: Justin Pugh
- RT: Marcus Gilbert
Admittingly, this is a solid line, and they will be coached by guru Sean Kugler. They’ve started a combined 316 total NFL regular games. But, what scares me is the group’s extensive injury history and efficiency as blockers.
The grouping’s cumulative average Pro Football Focus grade is a lowly 58.4, and they’ve missed a combined 134 NFL regular season games. Both are scary numbers. If the team wants to see better offensive line play, each will need to stay healthy; a bold proposition for an injury prone group.