Round 3, Pick 66: Trey Benson, Florida State RB
James Conner has been a staple of Arizona's offense in recent years, but the Cardinals sought out his successor in the 2024 draft. Benson played a backup role in 2024, but he made an impact on the Cardinals offense.
On 63 carries, Benson rushed for 291 yards and one touchdown, averaging 4.6 yards per attempt. Beyond simply serving a backup role, Benson added an element of explosiveness to Arizona's offense. According to PFF, he had ten carries of ten yard or more.
Grade: B
Round 3, Pick 71: Isaiah Adams, Illinois IOL
In the third round and beyond, most teams are not looking for immediate starters. While Isaiah Adams did not command a starting role as soon as he entered the building, he started the Cardinals final five games in 2024.
Rookie offensive linemen often experience an adjustment period, and Isaiah Adams was no exception. In his five starts, Adams allowed 14 pressures and two sacks. However, he showed the ability to hold up against high-quality NFL defensive linemen.
Adams is expected to start at guard for the Cardinals in 2025. Even considering the struggles he had at times in his rookie year, this draft pick looks like a hit.
Grade: A-
Round 3, Pick 82: Tip Reiman, Illinois TE
With their next pick, the Cardinals drafted another Illinois product in tight end Tip Reiman. Reiman is an excellent blocking tight end fit to serve a specific role in Drew Petzing's offense. He complements Trey McBride's skill set perfectly.
Reiman's stats won't jump off the page, but his impact reaches far beyond raw numbers. He could play a key role in the Cardinals offense for years to come. While he is limited as a player, his blocking ability makes him a successful draft pick so far.
Grade: B+
Round 3, Pick 90: Elijah Jones, Boston College CB
With their fourth and final third-round pick, the Cardinals targeted the defensive secondary. Unfortunately, not every rookie can make an impact in year one. Former Boston College cornerback Elijah Jones has an ideal frame and athleticism to compete in the NFL.
In Arizona's final preseason game, Jones suffered an ankle injury that would keep him sidelined for the entire 2024 season. Hopefully, he can find playing time in his second year.
Grade: Incomplete