After multiple years of being a legitimate contender in the NFC, the Arizona Cardinals fell back to a 15-16-1 record over the last two seasons. Carson Palmer’s semi-stunning retirement seemed to set the franchise back. However, general manager Steve Keim has set Arizona up for success with two successful drafts in back-to-back years. With small windows across the NFC and a ton of developing talent, the Arizona Cardinals can return to greatness rather quickly. The young talent on this team will lead them sooner rather than later with the prospect of a sophomore break out.
Unequivocally, the 10th overall pick in the NFL’s most recent first-year player draft will be paramount in this team’s future. Josh Rosen is the hand-picked candidate to be the next franchise quarterback of the Arizona Cardinals. Especially in today’s game, there is nothing more important for this organization than “Chosen Rosen.” While the quarterback position is the most significant, the Arizona Cardinals are building a competitive core around that position.
The rest of the 2018 draft class is quite impressive as well, including Christian Kirk, Mason Cole, and Chase Edmonds, among others. These selections will look to be franchise cornerstones, but they may take longer to develop. Thankfully, Arizona has reacted cordially, by signing underrated passer Sam Darnold and interior offensive lineman Justin Pugh. These signings should grant the Cardinals wins this year, but are not necessarily part of their long-term plans.
However, the 2017 class has an extraneous year of experience under their belt, making them more ready to compete. This particular class has gifted Arizona with a great foundation for their defense and helpful assets on the other side of the ball. Their rookie years varied in success, as some reached All-Pro honors, while others rode the bench. No matter how they performed last season, it’s a new year and these players are ready to break out in their sophomore campaigns.
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