Earlier in the month, we predicted the Arizona Cardinals 53 man roster before the draft. Now that the 2023 Draft is history, it’s time to revamp that projection.
It’s much easier to predict what a roster will look like following the NFL Draft. And if you read our similar article before this season’s annual selection meeting, you’re going to quickly discover that what you’re about to read will look dramatically different.
For one, two star players that I didn’t initially have slated onto the lineup are, for now, at least, back on board. One player listed below is projected to convert positions, and since there is still no real word on the base defensive scheme at the time of this writing, a few listed as linebackers could wind up on the defensive line.
So, who is projected to make the cut in 2023? Keep reading for more.
Projecting the Arizona Cardinals 53 man roster for 2023
Quarterback
Kyler Murray, Jeff Driskel, Colt McCoy
When Murray returns, he is the unquestioned starter. Jeff Driskel has a skill-set that can mirror Murray’s, while the aging Colt McCoy slides in as the QB3. Draft pick Clayton Tune makes the team’s practice squad.
Running Back
James Conner, Keaontay Ingram, Emari Demercado, Corey Clement
The Arizona Cardinals opted not to select a running back this year, so they will rely on Conner to stay healthy. Keaontay Ingram is heading into his second season, and could see an increased role, though he’ll need to hold off undrafted free agent Emari Demercado and the rather intriguing Corey Clement.
Receiver
DeAndre Hopkins, Marquise Brown, Rondale Moore, Greg Dortch, Michael Wilson, Zach Pascal
Now that DeAndre Hopkins has yet to be traded, it makes sense to assume he’s, at this point, heading back to the desert. If that remains the case, then Marquise Brown slides in as the WR2 while Rondale Moore and Greg Dortch handle the slot. Michael Wilson will also see time, and Zach Pascal makes the roster thanks to his ability to play special teams.
Tight End
Zach Ertz, Trey McBride, Auden Tate
Zach Ertz and Trey McBride will handle most of the snaps, and don’t be surprised if McBride gets the nod over Ertz at some point this season. Tate, listed as a receiver, converts to tight end to back up Ertz and McBride.
Offensive Line
Kelvin Beachum, Will Hernandez, Hjalte Froholdt, Paris Johnson Jr., D.J. Humphries, Josh Jones, Lecitus Smith, Elijah Wilkinson, Jon Gaines II
Beachum and Humphries will most likely play tackle, while Hernandez and rookie Paris Johnson Jr. play guard. At this point, Hjalte Froholdt has the inside track to play center, though Lecitus Smith saw practice reps there last season and rookie Jon Gaines II has a couple games of experience at the position.
Defensive Line
L.J. Collier, Leki Fotu, Rashard Lawrence, Dante Stills, Kevin Strong, Carlos Watkins
If there has ever been a free for all, it’s at defensive line. Note, that a few players listed as linebackers will find their names here if the Arizona Cardinals confirm they’re switching to a 4-3 base, but as it stands, it’s up in the air. Anyway, look for Collier, Strong, and Watkins to see ample playing time, while Fotu and Lawrence play nose tackle. Stills could rotate in with the projected ends in this scheme.
Linebackers
Krys Barnes, Zaven Collins, B.J. Ojulari, Owen Pappoe, Myjai Sanders, Isaiah Simmons, Cameron Thomas, Kyzir White, Josh Woods
There is a chance nearly every player listed above will see playing time. Barnes, White, and Pappoe will play on the inside, while Thomas, Sanders, and Ojulari take reps at edge. Zaven Collins could see time at both outside and inside linebacker, while Simmons will play all over the field, though for purposes of this article, he’s listed in his natural position at linebacker. Woods will see time on special teams.
Cornerbacks
Marco Wilson, Antonio Hamilton, Christian Matthew, Garrett Williams, Kei’Trel Clark, Kris Boyd
Marco Wilson and Antonio Hamilton are the likely starters, though don’t be surprised if Garrett Williams eventually cuts into their playing time. Christian Matthew and Kei-Trel Clark should provide depth, while Kris Boyd makes the roster as a special teamer.
Safeties
Budda Baker, Jalen Thompson, Juju Hughes, Josh Thomas
As with Hopkins, there is no reason to believe Budda Baker won’t be in the desert come training camp, so at this point, he’s on the roster. Jalen Thompson also naturally makes it, while Juju Hughes and Josh Tomas slide in as backups.
Specialists
Matt Prater, Nolan Cooney, Joe Fortunato
Prater likely returns at kicker, though there is a small chance the Arizona Cardinals roll with Elliott Fry if they wish to get younger at the position. Nolan Cooney is the likely punter, while Joe Fortunato is your probable long snapper.