3 likely scenarios for the Cardinals first-round draft pick in 2022
By Sion Fawkes
Cardinals trade up in the first round
Given Steve Keim’s inability to turn draft picks into solid NFL contributors consistently, it wouldn’t hurt if the Cardinals traded up and, in return, gave up a few picks in both 2022 and 2023. Anyway, if the Cardinals were to trade up, they could go after an edge rusher if they don’t re-sign Jones or address the position in free agency.
However, one of the Cincinnati corners, like Sauce Gardner, would be perfect. He’s big and lean, much like a Patrick Peterson clone. And he would start from Day One across from either Byron Murphy, Marco Wilson, or a new face brought in via free agency, which would allow Murphy to remain in the slot.
But, Keim has to restrain himself from going after glamor. Unless Gardner’s literally the best player left on the board, he should be their target regardless of whether Keim trades up or not. Gardner’s too good of a prospect to pass up, and he probably won’t be there for the twenty-third pick.