Arizona Cardinals cut ties with experienced cornerback
By Jim Koch
Cornerback David Amerson‘s release from the Arizona Cardinals could lead to the acquisition of another experienced defender
The Arizona Cardinals front office made a move on Thursday that came as a bit of a surprise. Veteran cornerback David Amerson, who had joined the club last November, was sent to the unemployment line. The journeyman had registered five starts for the Cards last season, and was hoping for even more action in 2019.
The six-game suspension of perennial Pro Bowler Patrick Peterson had seemingly presented Amerson, and others, with a stellar opportunity. The fact that Arizona sent the experienced cover guy packing so soon must mean that they’re satisfied with those he was preparing to compete against. A group that includes Robert Alford, Tramaine Brock Sr. and rookie Byron Murphy.
The release of Amerson may be followed by another transaction by the Cardinals. The team hosted another defender on the same day that the 27-year old corner was given his walking papers. Defensive end Andre Branch, who has played for both the Jacksonville Jaguars and Miami Dolphins, would help the defense on the front line if he was signed.
There were those who believed that Amerson had the ability to make an impact in the Cards’ secondary this coming fall. The former Washington Redskins draft pick has 61 NFL starts under his belt, competing for three different franchises. Amerson has racked up 273 tackles, nine interceptions and 65 passes defensed in six pro campaigns.
Branch could potentially add production to an Arizona defensive line that is in dire need of some playmakers. The 29-year old has tallied 187 career tackles, 25.5 sacks and 46 quarterback hits during his seven years in the league. Branch has appeared in 95 contests and has started 39 times.
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Though it would’ve been nice to keep him, the Cardinals should endure the loss of Amerson just fine. Peterson will return in week seven, Alford and Brock Sr. are talented performers, and Murphy is a highly-touted second-round draft selection. With or without Amerson, this is the best group of cover guys that the Cards have had in years.