Eagles CB: Next Cardinals Defensive Addition?
The Arizona Cardinals are in a full-fledged rebuild after a disastrous 2022 season. With Kyler Murray’s injury and a slew of other roster issues, it’s clear that the team needs to shore up their defense in a big way. Enter the Philadelphia Eagles, a team known for their talented secondary. Could one of their corners be the missing piece for the Cardinals’ defense?
The Eagles’ Cornerback Situation
The Eagles boast a strong defensive backfield with Darius Slay and James Bradberry anchoring the unit. However, with Avonte Maddox’s future uncertain and the potential for cap space concerns, there could be opportunities for the Cardinals to target an Eagles cornerback.
Potential Targets:
- Avonte Maddox: Maddox’s versatility and ability to play both inside and outside make him an intriguing option. While his injury history might be a concern, his talent and potential upside could be tempting for the Cardinals.
- Zech McPhearson: A young and developing cornerback, McPhearson could be a valuable asset to the Cardinals' secondary. With a chance to compete for starting snaps, he might be a more affordable option than Maddox.
- Josh Jobe: Another younger player looking to establish himself, Jobe might be a good fit for the Cardinals' rebuild. He could benefit from playing alongside more experienced players and gain valuable playing time.
Cardinals' Defensive Needs
The Cardinals’ defense has several areas to address, with cornerback being a key one. After releasing veteran Byron Murphy Jr., the team needs a reliable starter opposite Marco Wilson. Adding a corner with experience and talent would significantly improve the overall defense.
Why This Makes Sense:
- Familiarity: The Cardinals' defensive coordinator, Nick Rallis, was the Eagles’ linebackers coach from 2019-2022. He has a strong understanding of the Eagles' defensive system and their players.
- Talent: The Eagles have a wealth of talent in their secondary, and it’s likely that some players will become expendable as the team tries to manage their cap.
- Value: The Cardinals could potentially acquire a starting-caliber cornerback for a reasonable price, making this a win-win situation.
Conclusion:
While it's still early in the offseason, the Cardinals are expected to be active in free agency. With the Eagles potentially needing to make moves to address their cap situation, a trade involving a cornerback could benefit both teams. This move could be a crucial step for the Cardinals as they look to rebuild their defense and return to contention.
Keep in mind: This is just speculation and the Cardinals may have other priorities in free agency. It will be interesting to see what moves the Cardinals make and whether they are willing to tap into their former coach's network for defensive talent.
