NFL Mocks has examined all 32 NFL teams, and highlighted each team’s top three needs once the clock starts at the 2017 NFL Draft.
NFL Mocks expert George Stockburger and the rest of the NFL Mocks staff break down which positions must be addressed through the NFL Draft and free agency. Analysis comes from various writers, and is supplemented by the editorial staff.
Arizona Cardinals
Key draft needs: QB, G, WR
Record: 5-8-1
Quarterback – With the age of 37 approaching and a rocky 2016 season, the likelihood of starter Carson Palmer retiring is possibly increasing by the week. The Cardinals are not a team that is huge on spending free agency dollars. So in the case of Palmer retiring, a franchise QB such as Notre Dame’s DeShone Kizer or North Carolina’s Mitch Trubisky are possibilities and great fits. Both are strong-armed quarterbacks with ideal NFL size.
Guard – Interior blocking has been an issue this season for the Cardinals this season. The right guard in particular needs immediate upgrade. They are likely to target a signal caller in round one as expected. While mid-rounds are prime stages for the Cardinals to upgrade the guard position, especially for a potential rookie franchise QB. Be mindful of a prospect such as Issac Asiata of Utah in the middle rounds. As well as Clemson’s Jay Guillermo or Pittsburgh’s Dorian Johnson.
Wide receiver – Veteran Larry Fitzgerald has been a consistent staple in Arizona and likely to take his final bow at the end of the season. A hole sits on the roster with the recent release of Michael Floyd. So it seems that the team will soon need a go-to guy at receiver. A prospect like Virginia Tech’s Isaiah Ford have the size and skill to be a solid fit in the offense.