Wide Receiver
It’s clear DeAndre Hopkins is one of the best in the NFL, if not the best. But it’s also clear he can’t do this all on his own. And the Cardinals receiving room is beyond shaky.
Even if Larry Fitzgerald doesn’t retire before the 2021 season, he’s strictly a possession receiver. He’s sure-handed and will haul in most of his targets. But his speed isn’t where it was and his yards per catch is now in the single digits. He’s a solid third or fourth option at this point in his career.
Christian Kirk has underperformed. He’s serviceable, no doubt, after hauling in 48 receptions and 6 touchdowns in his third season. He can be a deep threat and he also has a nose for the first down marker. But hauling in under 50 catches won’t cut it. He has his place, but it’s not the WR2 spot.
Andy Isabella hasn’t shown us anything special minus a few and far in between strong outings. And KeeSean Johnson isn’t the guy with his limited success in limited chances. At best, this duo provides depth.
The Cardinals need to lure a solid number two receiver to lineup outside of Hopkins. Not only will it give Murray a fantastic second option when teams key on Hopkins; it will also draw attention away from Hopkins and the slot receivers on the field.
In 2020, Cardinals receivers had a tough time getting open and it prompted Murray to either force something or to try and make up for the lack of open receivers with his legs. A solid number two option will change the entire outlook of this offense.