The Arizona Cardinals are pushing for a return to the playoffs in 2025. They made huge moves in free agency, but Arizona needs to ace the upcoming NFL Draft to fill out the roster. Needs remain at multiple positions, including the offensive and defensive lines.
Alongside Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson, Arizona could use another threat at wide receiver. If they elect to target the position in this year’s draft, the Cardinals have options in multiple rounds.
Arizona Cardinals best draft fits at wide receiver
Early option: Matthew Golden, Texas
It’s certainly up for debate whether the Cardinals should draft a receiver in the first round, but Matthew Golden would be the perfect option if they do. Arizona is in need of a deep threat with the speed to open up space for Marvin Harrison Jr. and Trey McBride. Greg Dortch and Michael Wilson are valuable players, but Golden would be a clear upgrade over both.
Matthew Golden was the fastest receiver at the NFL Combine, running a 4.29-second forty-yard dash. Golden consistently beat defenders deep during his collegiate career. Per PFF, Golden’s average depth of target was 13.5 yards in his lone season with the Longhorns. Golden shows excellent body control and catching ability.
Mid-round swing: Savion Williams, TCU
In all likelihood, the Cardinals will address either the trenches or the defensive backfield with their top picks in the NFL draft. However, there are a few valuable wide receivers available in the middle rounds.
Savion Williams is not a finished product, but his raw athletic ability is intriguing. Williams was used in a variety of ways at TCU, lining up both at receiver and running back. He is dynamic with the ball in his hands. Williams has room to grow as a route runner, but the Cardinals could be drawn in by the flashes he showed in college.
Late-round sleeper: Arian Smith, Georgia
If the Cardinals choose to target other needs before they draft a receiver, they could spend one of their final picks on the position. Late in the draft, most teams select players with the traits to develop into key players.
Arian Smith, the former Georgia receiver, could be an instant contributor in Arizona’s offense. Like Matthew Golden, Smith has the speed to take the top off of opposing defenses. A former top-50 recruit, Smith shows the athleticism and talent to succeed at the next level. He could develop into the perfect third option in Arizona’s passing offense.