Cardinals could find pass-rusher in second round of 2022 draft

A 2022 NFL Draft that is chock-full of pass rushers could enable the Arizona Cardinals to wait until the second round to address the position.

One of the worst-kept secrets in the National Football League is that the Arizona Cardinals need to acquire a pass rusher.

Back on March 16th, sack-specialist Chandler Jones left town to sign a free-agent deal with the Las Vegas Raiders. Cards general manager Steve Keim is now saddled with the unenviable task of trying to replace the four-time Pro Bowler.

After ignoring the position in free agency, Arizona must now turn its attention to the upcoming NFL Draft. Starting outside linebacker Markus Golden still has the ability to put pressure on quarterbacks, but others such as Devon Kennard, Dennis Gardeck, and Victor Dimukeje are probably better suited for backup roles.

Fortunately for the Redbirds, there are a multitude of talented edge-rushers who are preparing to turn pro in 2022. In fact, the inordinate amount of depth at the spot in the draft could enable Keim to wait until the second round to address the hole on defense.

Arizona Cardinals could still have solid edge-rushers to choose from in second round of 2022 NFL Draft

At the moment, the Cardinals hold the 23rd pick in round two, which happens to be the draft’s 55th-overall selection. From the looks of things, the club’s front office should still have several capable pass-rushers to choose from at that point of the three-day event.

One prospect who could still be on the board for the Cards is Cameron Thomas, a 22-year-old defensive end out of San Diego State University. In 14 games last fall, the 6-foot-5, 270-pound Thomas totaled 10.5 sacks and 71 tackles for the Aztecs.

Another edge-rusher who could still be available at that point is Sam Williams, a 22-year-old out of the University of Mississippi. The 6-foot-4, 265-pounder exploded for 12.5 sacks and 57 tackles for the Rebels last season.

The University of Michigan’s David Ojabo would be an outstanding second-round addition for Arizona. The 6-foot-5, 250-pounder registered 11 sacks and five forced fumbles for the Wolverines in 2021.

Penn State University’s Arnold Ebiketie could be another intriguing option at the 55th-overall choice. The 6-foot-3, 253-pounder recorded 9.5 sacks and 62 tackles last year for the Nittany Lions.