Grading the Arizona Cardinals top free agent moves
By Sion Fawkes
Cardinals get a steal with Rodney Hudson
When the Cardinals first traded for Hudson, my first thought was they’re “Partying like it’s 2015.” Hudson was the third addition to the Cardinals from the 2011 NFL Draft Class. However, unlike Watt and Green, he has been far more durable.
Also, Hudson had a stellar career with the Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders. He made the Pro Bowl in 2016, 2017, and 2019. Also in 2019, he was named as a Second-Team All-Pro. In his 10 seasons, he played in 143 games, or 14.3 games per possible 16 games each year. He started 127 of those games, or 12.7 per 16 games played.
Add that to the fact that per Pro Football Focus, he ranked 8th in the league at the center position with a grade of 73.6. If you want to have more fun with the Hudson trade, he also committed just one penalty and allowed just one sack.
He figures to be a huge upgrade over Mason Cole and Lamont Gaillard. Both of whom underperformed in 2020.
Grade: A -: Hudson is yet another older player that the Cardinals historically go after. However, his durability and production at age 30-31 give the Cardinals and their fans a lot to look forward to. He will anchor an offensive line that already includes D.J. Humphries.