Analyzing the Arizona Cardinals 2021 draft class after year one
By Sion Fawkes
Marco Wilson – CB
In 2021, Wilson proved one thing: He wasn’t ready to be a starting NFL corner. However, Malcolm Butler’s early retirement left the cornerback-thin Cardinals without a choice. With Byron Murphy best suited for the slot, Wilson found himself on the edge. And too often, he failed to keep up.
In 14 games played this season, Wilson allowed a 70.3 percent completion rate and a 120.8 quarterback rating. He also allowed six touchdowns while opponents routinely targeted him. While we can’t throw in the towel after just one season, the fourth-round pick needs to show improvement heading into Year 2.
It’s clear the Cardinals will upgrade the position, so odds are, Wilson may be shunted into the dime back spot, with Murphy playing nickel. Look for the Cardinals to upgrade both via the draft and free agency as they seek to get this problem under control. But if they want a deep playoff run, they need to rely on someone other than Wilson.