Analyzing the Arizona Cardinals and the NFC West’s free agency moves
By Sion Fawkes
Los Angeles Rams
Most Prolific Move: Trading for Matthew Stafford
The Rams are banking on the aging arm and body of Stafford to hold as they surround him with talent in every facet of the game. Stafford played well for the Detroit Lions, considering his winless record in the playoffs and failure to win the division.
He showed grit during those 12 tough seasons in Detroit. And for a franchise that had seen much turnover and turmoil, he provided the single bright spot. For the first time in his career, Stafford has a fantastic team around him and he can finally win that elusive playoff game and NFC West Championship.
Key Additions
Matthew Stafford/QB, DeSean Jackson/WR
Key Needs
Offensive tackle, Interior Offensive Line, Linebacker, Edge
Where do they stand?
The Rams had the best overall defense in football, and while they lost a few names, their core remains in town. On offense, they’re loaded with stars and the Rams now have a quarterback more than capable of moving the ball through the air. Overall, this is, at the very least, the best football team Matthew Stafford has ever played for.
Rank in the NFC West: 1st
The Rams were the only team in the NFC West to sweep the Cardinals and they went deeper into the playoffs than the rest of the division. They’re retaining much of their core, and Stafford is poised to make a run. The Cardinals will once again have a tough time.