ARIZONA CARDINALS POST-DRAFT TEAM GUIDE

The Arizona Cardinals had an interesting 2021 NFL Draft, to say the least. While the overall talent in the early selections cannot be disputed, the Cardinals seem to operate like a franchise lacking true direction. They entered the draft with cornerback undoubtedly being their most pressing need. While they added some talent, they failed to address key positions on their team with any significant values.

Let’s take a look back at the Cardinals’ 2021 NFL Draft class:

Round 1: Zaven Collins, LB, Tulsa

Collins is an excellent player with the size and upside in the passing game that should make him a long-term starter at the position. This was a “safe” pick for the Cardinals while there were elite cornerbacks still on the board. Furthermore, you drafted Isaiah Simmons in the first round of last year's draft. In consecutive years you chose linebackers in the first round and linebacker isn’t a premium position.

Round 2: Rondale Moore, WR, Purdue

This is one of the most explosive and dynamic players in the entire NFL draft. However, I have big questions about the “fit.” Moore is 5-foot-7. You drafterAndy Isabella two years ago in the second round and he has underwhelmed. You drafted Christian Kirk (also in the second round) who has given you solid value and has been a steady contributor. However, three of your top five receivers are now shorter players that will play exclusively in the slot. It's hard to win this way in the NFC West.

Round 4: Marco Wilson, CB, Florida

This is a player whose tape was rather inconsistent but he tested extremely well. He played cornerback at Florida but figures to challenge for time in subpackages and maybe as a safety in base defenses.

Round 6: Victor Dimukeje, EDGE, Duke

He enjoyed a productive career at Duke and has proven to be able to rush the passer. However, he played as a defensive end in college and will be an OLB in the Cardinals’ 3-4 scheme. He’s 6-foot-1, so his size and length may keep him from being an every-down player, but in subpackage situations, he has proven that he can pressure the QB.

Round 6: Tay Gowan, CB, UCF

The good news is that the Cardinals finally addressed the cornerback position with a player with good length and size. The bad news is that he likely will never be a starter at the position. He’s played predominantly outside and mostly in press. He will need to learn to play off to become a contributor in base packages.

Round 7: James Wiggins, S, Cincinnati

Safety is the one position where the Cardinals have a lot of depth. Wiggins will likely be a practice squad candidate and will struggle to roster for a team that’s loaded with safeties.

Round 7: Michal Menet, OC, Penn State

Menet is an extremely raw player who was given an undraftable grade by most teams. The Cardinals traded for one of the best centers in the NFL in Rodney Hudson. Menet may have a chance at the practice squad if he can provide some depth at center and guard.