In 2024, the Arizona Cardinals had one of the weakest defensive fronts in the NFL. They allowed 126.4 rushing yards per game and struggled to get after opposing quarterbacks. Through the first portion of the offseason, the Cardinals have been aggressive in correcting their defensive woes.
Arizona signed Josh Sweat to a four-year, $76 million contract, making him their highest-paid defender. They followed it up by inking former Browns defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson to a two-year, $29 million deal. Most recently, Calais Campbell returned on a one-year deal.
These signings alleviate the pressing need to add defensive linemen through the upcoming NFL Draft. Still, the Cardinals could stand to draft at least one contributor up front, especially at defensive tackle.
Whether they spend early draft capital on the position or not, the Cardinals are expected to address the interior of the defensive line in the draft. These three defensive tackles could be key contributors for Arizona’s defense moving forward.
Cardinals best fits at defensive tackle in the NFL Draft
Early option: Kenneth Grant, Michigan
One of the most common pairings for the Arizona Cardinals in the first round of the draft is defensive tackle Kenneth Grant out of Michigan. Grant is astoundingly agile for his size. At 6’4” and 331 pounds, he has quicker feet than one would expect. He showed some inconsistency throughout his collegiate career, but had flashes that would leave NFL scouts drooling.
Dalvin Tomlinson’s two-year deal should not keep the Cardinals from spending an early draft pick on a defensive tackle of Kenneth Grant’s caliber. He has the tools to become the centerpiece of Arizona’s defense for years to come.
Mid-round swing: Deone Walker, Kentucky
While Kenneth Grant is an ideal pick on day one of the NFL Draft, the Cardinals have options in the middle rounds if they wait to address the interior of their defensive line. Most of the available defensive tackles in the middle rounds require some level of conjecture. Kentucky’s Deone Walker is no exception.
Walker is a unique prospect - there’s no questioning that. He has the frame to dominate on the inside at 6’7” and 331 pounds with 34-inch arms. However, his production leaves something to be desired. In 11 starts last season, he posted just five tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks.
If the Cardinals select Walker, he would have the opportunity to learn behind Dalvin Tomlinson for a couple of seasons while serving as a quality depth piece. After refining his game, Walker could be a dominant force for Jonathan Gannon’s defense.
Late-round sleeper: Tonka Hemingway, South Carolina
First off, what a name. Tonka Hemingway, a quick and versatile defender, would instantly be a fan favorite in Arizona. Though slightly undersized at 284 pounds, Hemingway consistently makes plays in the backfield. He can line up at any position on the defensive interior, allowing Jonathan Gannon to deploy him in a variety of ways.
Hemingway would likely not be an immediate starter for the Cardinals. However, Arizona lacks depth on the interior. Hemingway could serve as a solid backup with the traits and potential to grow into a larger role.
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