Raising Zona
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5 reasons to worry about the Arizona Cardinals in 2019

By Avery Duncan

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - DECEMBER 23: Larry Fitzgerald #11 of the Arizona Cardinals looks on from the bench in the NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams at State Farm Stadium on December 23, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. The Los Angeles Rams won 31-9. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
GLENDALE, ARIZONA - DECEMBER 23: Larry Fitzgerald #11 of the Arizona Cardinals looks on from the bench in the NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams at State Farm Stadium on December 23, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. The Los Angeles Rams won 31-9. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
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NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – APRIL 25: NFL commissioner Roger Goodell poses with quarterback Kyler Murray after being drafted first overall on day 1 of the 2019 NFL Draft on April 25, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – APRIL 25: NFL commissioner Roger Goodell poses with quarterback Kyler Murray after being drafted first overall on day 1 of the 2019 NFL Draft on April 25, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images) /

2. Reliance on rookies

The Cardinals might’ve had the best ’19 draft class in the NFL. It’s not just because they drafted Kyler Murray. To go along with the explosive QB, Keim drafted Byron Murphy, Andy Isabella, Zach Allen, Hakeem Butler, and Deionte Thompson and got amazing value in terms of their big-board rankings compared to draft position.

The problem isn’t the talent of the players drafted — each has legitimate Pro-Bowl/All-Pro potential in their own rights. The problem is, that the Cardinals will likely rely on these rookies, a lot. Though there is potential for several star rookies for the team, there is always a learning curve transitioning from college ball to pro ball.

Currently, I have Murray, Murphy, Isabella, and Allen all starting week-one. Butler could join that list too, and he’ll likely see a lot of time in five-wide formations. Depending on a rookie quarterback to win games is a gamble in all situations. So is relying on two rookie defensive starters and a wide receiver.

Again, there is potential for immediate stardom from the Cardinals’ rookie class. But more likely than not, each will face a learning curve. This isn’t a bad thing. But, considering that several rookies will see starter or key-cog snaps from the get-go, it could be.

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