The Arizona Cardinals have built out the most balanced roster they've had in years this offseason. After a complete defensive rebuild at all three levels, the roster is set. Well, almost.
There is one more move that the Cardinals can make before the start of training cam that could complete their perfect offseason, and it involves a foreer first-round pick.
Arizona Cardinals could trade for Trevor Penning before training camp
We've seen plenty of reclamation projects pan out over the last few NFL seasons, primarily at quarterback. Baker Mayfield revived his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Sam Darnold took the Minnesota Vikings to the playoffs.
The next great career revival candidate may be hiding in plain sight — on the New Orleans Saints.
The Saints selected offensive tackle Trevor Penning with the 19th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. Penning had been a standout blocker at Northern Iowa. He impressed at the Senior Bowl with his overwhelming size and power, causing his draft stock to rise to its peak.
When Penning was selected in the first round, it wasn't viewed as much of a reach. Many experts expected Penning to be a starting tackle for the saints for years to come.
That's not how Trevor Penning's career has played out. While he's showed the power and physicality that drew scouts to him during his draft process, Penning has struggled with the technical development required to be a proficient pass blocker.
In 2024, he received a pass blocking grade of just 51.6 from PFF. He allowed 54 pressures and five sacks. As a result of his struggles, the Saints declined to pick up the fifth-year option on his contract. That means he in set to become a free agent after the 2025 season.
If the Saints truly aren't committed to Penning for the long haul, the Arizona Cardinals could swoop in for a trade. Penning's pass protection might be suspect, but his run blocking numbers have been encouraging so far in his career. Last season, he earned a PFF run blocking grade of 70.1.
There has been some speculation about a move to guard for Penning. His "mauler" play style would fit perfectly in Arizona's gap-scheme rushing attack. Penning could immediately challenge Isaiah Adams for a starting spot at guard. If nothing else, he would serve as an important depth piece who could hypothetically slot in at all five offensive line positions.
At 6'7" Penning may be too tall to play at guard in Arizona. He might further limit Kyler Murray's ability to throw the ball over the middle of the field.
But this is still a swing worth taking. The Arizona Cardinals lack offensive line depth in a big way. For the cost of a late-round draft pick, this move feels like a no-brainer if the Saints are willing to make it.