3 winners from the 2023 NFL Combine the Arizona Cardinals should be excited for - Offense
By Sion Fawkes
The Arizona Cardinals may need to build their offensive line and snag a running back in the 2023 NFL Draft. And there are some enticing prospects.
While defense is the primary concern for the Arizona Cardinals, and there were several winners on that side of the ball at the 2023 NFL Combine, the Redbirds also need to fill plenty of holes on offense. And while they would be better off fixing most of their woes at line in free agency, there is a chance they may still need some help on the unit.
Running back is another area concern, with James Conner being the only proven player on the depth chart. Below, I’ve listed three players on offense who shined at the NFL Combine this past weekend. Two could fill the interior offensive line, and another could factor in as an RB2. Let’s meet them.
1 - Sidy Sow, G/Eastern Michigan
When a small school stud shows up and shines, there is a good chance they skyrocketed up teams’ draft boards. That said, don’t be surprised if Sidy Sow goes earlier than many draft analysts may otherwise project.
He showed a remarkable blend of power, speed, and smarts during drills. And his size, 6’5, 323lb, should entice general manager Monti Ossenfort.
Overall, if the Arizona Cardinals go with a player like Sow, don’t fret if you heard little of him. He could become a starter from Day One, or at worst, a role player who will develop into a starter in time.
2 - Jordan McFadden, G/Clemson
Coming from a larger school like Clemson, chances are you’ve heard of McFadden, and the 303 pounder ran a sensational 4.99 in the 40-yard dash. He was also among the best in his group during drills.
Measuring at just 6’2, he’s on the shorter end of the spectrum. But McFadden’s solid weekend may allow the likes of Ossenfort to overlook his smaller size.
Like Sow, McFadden may not be an immediate starter for the Redbirds. But if he’s there later in Day 2 or even on Day 3 when the Arizona Cardinals pick, Ossenfort should strongly consider.
3 - Jahmyr Gibbs, RB/Alabama
No, Jahmyr Gibbs hasn’t generated the same attention as top running backs like Bijan Robinson, who many believe to be the best in the draft class. However, his smallish size complements Conner well, so Gibbs could find himself splitting carries with the back should the Arizona Cardinals decide to take him.
At the Combine, he ran a blazing 4.36 seconds, so his speed should excite Ossenfort. Gibbs also has fresh legs, since he saw just 383 total carries in college, with 2,132 rushing yards, 15 touchdowns, and 5.6 yards per carry.
He split time between Georgia Tech and Alabama during his college career, and his season with the Crimson Tide in 2022 was his best. Gibbs saw 151 carries, 926 yards, 7 touchdowns, and an average of 6.1 yards per. He was also a threat in the passing game, with 44 catches, 444 yards, and 3 touchdowns.
Source: 2023 All-Combine Team, Offense: QB C.J. Stroud, TE Darnell Washington impress in Indianapolis by Nick Shook, NFL.com
(Statistics provided by Sports-Reference/CFB)