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Arizona Cardinals depth chart projection (2023 Training Camp Edition - Part II)

The Arizona Cardinals defense has weaknesses at defensive line and question marks at both EDGE and linebacker. But their secondary could be a top unit.

By Sion Fawkes

Sep 25, 2022; Glendale, Ariz., U.S.; Arizona Cardinals linebacker Isaiah Simmons (9) and the
Sep 25, 2022; Glendale, Ariz., U.S.; Arizona Cardinals linebacker Isaiah Simmons (9) and the / Michael Chow/The Republic
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Kansas City Chiefs placekicker Harrison Butker (7) makes a field goal as holder Tommy Townsend (5)
Kansas City Chiefs placekicker Harrison Butker (7) makes a field goal as holder Tommy Townsend (5) / Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY

Defensive Backs

  • CB: Marco Wilson, Kei’Trel Clark
  • CB: Antonio Hamilton, Rashad Fenton
  • NB/S: Jalen Thompson, Isaiah Simmons, Christian Matthew, (Garrett Williams)
  • SS: Budda Baker
  • FS: Isaiah Simmons, Jalen Thompson

This is a unit I’m beyond excited about, starting with Marco Wilson, who will start the year as the Arizona Cardinals CB1 and he could ultimately solidify himself as such. Antonio Hamilton is the clear frontrunner for the CB2 job, and Rashad Fenton seems to be the only one who realistically has a chance to take the job in camp. 

Garrett Williams is currently on the non-football injury (NFI) list, and Kei-Trel Clark won’t see extended playing time until he proves he’s a better player than Hamilton or Fenton. Christian Matthew could also factor in as a nickel corner, but if the Cards go with a three safety set, Jalen Thompson could win the job.

Simmons looks like he will wind up playing safety, which could forge a dynamic trio between him, Jalen Thompson, and Budda Baker. Baker and Thompson are the unquestioned starters in the group, and they also factor in as a Top 5 tandem in the NFL. Adding Simmons to the equation would form a potentially tremendous trio, with Thompson likely factoring into the slot as well.

Specialists

  • K: Matt Prater
  • P: Matt Haack
  • LS: Aaron Brewer

Matt Prater is the unquestioned kicker for the Arizona Cardinals this season, while Matt Haack is still my frontrunner to win the punting job over Nolan Cooney. When the Cardinals brought back Aaron Brewer, it became clear that he will most likely be the guy in the desert for at least another season. 

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