Raising Zona
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Arizona Cardinals draft radar: Senior bowl standouts

By Damian Parson

Jan 30, 2021; Mobile, AL, USA; National defensive lineman Shaka Toney of Penn State (18), wide receiver Frank Darby of Arizona State (84) and other players greet fans after the 2021 Senior Bowl at Hancock Whitney Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 30, 2021; Mobile, AL, USA; National defensive lineman Shaka Toney of Penn State (18), wide receiver Frank Darby of Arizona State (84) and other players greet fans after the 2021 Senior Bowl at Hancock Whitney Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports /
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WR Nico Collins-Michigan 

Jan 26, 2021; Mobile, Alabama, USA; National wide receiver Nico Collins of Michigan (4) grabs a pass in drills during National team practice during the 2021 Senior Bowl week. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 26, 2021; Mobile, Alabama, USA; National wide receiver Nico Collins of Michigan (4) grabs a pass in drills during National team practice during the 2021 Senior Bowl week. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports /

Last off-season, Hakeem Butler was the lone receiver that eclipsed 6-foot-4 in stature. Butler possessed the ability to high point passes in contested catch situations. After his release, the offense missed that aspect outside of DeAndre Hopkins. The lack of another receiver to trust in contested situations plagued this offense.

The former wolverine pass-catcher was listed at 6-foot-4 and weighed in at 215 pounds. He is a height, weight, and speed prospect. Collins specializes in contested catches and stretching the defense downfield. Outside of Hopkins and a few plays from Kirk, Kyler lacked a consistent or reliable receiver to win their one-on-one matchups downfield.

Murray needs a secondary option once they enter the red zone. Hopkins commands multiple sets of eyes in coverage, but no one else can possess the physical traits to become a red zone threat. Nico Collins has the frame, skills, and athleticism to earn Murray’s trust.

Similar, to his DK Metcalf, Collins can become an imposing and fearful vertical threat. Adding him to this Cardinals offense would kick Kirk into the slot with Hopkins and Collins flanking him on the outside. Factoring Kyler Murray’s deep ball accuracy, Collins could develop into the consistent vertical receiver the Cardinals need.

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