Arizona Cardinals could consider Jalen Hurts for backup role

The Arizona Cardinals could draft the University of Oklahoma quarterback to be an understudy for Kyler Murray

With the NFL Draft just hours away, you can bet that the Arizona Cardinals are doing their homework. While the bulk of their attention will be centered around their eighth-overall selection, the front office will obviously have other decisions to make as well. In fact, the Cards may be presented with an intriguing scenario during the middle rounds of the three-day event.

Jalen Hurts, a star quarterback out of the University of Oklahoma, would be an excellent fit for Kliff Kingsbury‘s “Air Raid” offense. Last year’s Heisman Trophy runner-up possesses both the arm strength and athleticism that Arizona’s head coach looks for in a signal-caller. While Kyler Murray is entrenched as the club’s starter, would general manager Steve Keim consider drafting Hurts to be his understudy?

The 21-year old Hurts has a college resume that speaks for itself. This past fall, the 6’2, 220 pounder completed 69.7% of his passes for 3,851 yards and 32 touchdown tosses for the Sooners. Hurts also dazzled with his legs, amassing 1,298 rushing yards and 20 scores on the ground.

Before transferring to Oklahoma, Hurts spent three campaigns at the University of Alabama. In 42 career games with the Crimson Tide, the double-threat performer completed 62.9% of his throws for 5,626 yards and 48 touchdown passes. Hurts also accumulated 1,976 yards on the ground and 23 rushing scores while playing in Tuscaloosa.

It’s quite obvious that Hurts and Murray have similar playing styles. Both individuals have the ability to carve up defenses with both their arm and legs. One major difference between the two, however, is that Murray is considered a much more accurate passer.

Despite that limitation, Hurts would certainly be a compelling mid-round choice for the Cardinals. Perhaps Kingsbury and his staff would succeed in shoring up any deficiencies that the youngster may have. It will be interesting to see if Keim and company ultimately decide that Hurts is worth a third or fourth round investment.