Arizona Cardinals
There is plenty of reason for optimism surrounding the Arizona Cardinals during the upcoming season. However, it will be an uphill battle to be able to out-edge the San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks in the NFC West standings in 2020.
The Jamal Adams trade doesn’t change the immediate trajectory for the Cardinals too much for that fact. For Arizona, it was always about the long-term success they are capable of achieving with Kyler Murray and the other young pieces they can add to their core.
The patient approach will enable key young players for the Cardinals to experience progress in player development. It could take Murray more than one season to make a leap to stardom and both the offensive line and defense still need work.
If the Cardinals were in an easier division, they would undoubtedly be considered a serious contender for a playoff spot in 2020. It’s certainly not impossible for Arizona to achieve that outcome this season, but playing the toughest division in football doesn’t help.
Continuing to be patient with team-building will be most important for the Cardinals. The trade for DeAndre Hopkins brought a needed No. 1 receiver without breaking the bank, but avoiding panic trades to finish closer to a playoff appearance in 2020 is best.
