The Arizona Cardinals’ approach to the 2024 NFL Draft signals a pivotal moment in shaping the franchise’s future. With an array of draft picks at their disposal, including two coveted first-round selections, the Cardinals are in a prime position to address key roster needs and lay the groundwork for a competitive resurgence.
This article looks into the Cardinals’ draft strategy, analyzing their potential picks, recent draft history, and the broader implications for the team’s direction.
2024 NFL Draft Picks: Overview of Cardinals’ Capital
The Arizona Cardinals enter the 2024 NFL Draft with a significant advantage, holding 11 picks across various rounds. This haul includes two first-rounders, one second-rounder, and three third-rounders.
General Manager Monti Ossenfort has been strategic in accumulating this draft capital, executing four trades during the early rounds of the previous year’s draft. Notably, Ossenfort secured an additional first and third-round pick from the Houston Texans and another third-round selection from the Tennessee Titans.
This wealth of picks provides the Cardinals with the flexibility to address multiple areas of need and potentially make impactful moves throughout the draft.
First-Round Prospects: Marvin Harrison Jr. and Potential No. 27 Pick
The Cardinals hold the No. 4 overall pick, with Marvin Harrison Jr. frequently mentioned in mock drafts as a prime target. Harrison Jr.’s potential arrival in Arizona could significantly bolster the Cardinals’ receiving corps, providing a dynamic weapon for the team’s future quarterback.
Additionally, with the No. 27 pick, originally acquired from the Houston Texans, the Cardinals have the opportunity to further strengthen their roster. Speculation surrounds who the team might target with this selection, but the emphasis could be on shoring up the defense or adding depth to the offensive line, reflecting a balanced approach to team building.
Rookie Contributions: Impact of the 2023 Draft Class
In 2023, the Cardinals made strategic moves in the draft, focusing on immediate areas of need such as pass rusher, offensive line, wide receiver, and cornerback. Their first-round pick, offensive lineman Paris Johnson Jr. from Ohio State, was a notable selection aimed at fortifying the offensive front. Despite facing challenges, including penalties and adjustments to the NFL’s pace, Johnson’s development is crucial for the offensive line’s future success.
The Cardinals drafted nine players, with four in the top 100 picks, emphasizing their commitment to building through the draft and developing young talent for sustainable success.
Addressing Secondary Needs: The Case for Kool-Aid McKinstry
The Cardinals’ secondary could see further enhancements with the addition of a talent like Kool-Aid McKinstry. At 6’1″ and 190 pounds, McKinstry possesses the ideal physical attributes, technical skills, and competitive mindset to excel as a cornerback in the NFL. His ability to match up against top receivers, coupled with his ball skills and physicality, makes him an intriguing prospect for the Cardinals.
Adding a player of McKinstry’s caliber could solidify the team’s defensive backfield and introduce a potential CB1 to the roster, complementing the existing young talents and addressing a critical area of need.
Offensive Line Priorities: Paris Johnson Jr.’s Rookie Season Review
The Cardinals’ investment in Paris Johnson Jr. as their first-round pick in 2023 underscores their focus on strengthening the offensive line. Despite the challenges Johnson faced, including competition from peers and adapting to the professional game’s demands, his potential remains high.
The Cardinals’ offensive line strategy, which also considers the depth and talent in the upcoming draft, will be pivotal in enhancing protection and creating a conducive environment for offensive success. Johnson’s development and the potential addition of further talent in the draft are key components of Arizona’s offensive strategy moving forward.
Garrett Williams’ Rookie Impact
The Cardinals selected cornerback Garrett Williams with the 72nd pick in the third round of last year’s NFL Draft. The Harrisburg, North Carolina native, and former Syracuse Orange star, had 19 solo tackles, four assist tackles, one interception, and two passes defended in nine games.
North Carolina sportsbook promos will come in handy for Williams fans from his home state next season as the Tar Heel State is the next state in line to legalize online sports betting.
Williams’ addition to the team highlights the Cardinals’ strategy of bolstering their defense through the draft, focusing on players who can contribute immediately while offering growth potential.
Quarterback Situation: Kyler Murray’s Contract and Future Prospects
The Cardinals face a significant decision regarding Kyler Murray’s future, with his contract situation looming as a critical factor. The depth of the quarterback class in the 2024 Draft presents an opportunity for Arizona to potentially select a new franchise quarterback. This decision will have far-reaching implications for the team’s offensive strategy and financial flexibility.
Whether the Cardinals opt to move on from Murray or draft a quarterback in the early rounds, their approach will signal the franchise’s direction and commitment to building a competitive team.
Wide Receiver Depth: Seeking a Franchise Pass Catcher
The importance of securing a franchise-caliber wide receiver cannot be overstated, especially if the Cardinals decide to draft a new quarterback. While the wide receiver class is talented, it lacks the depth of the quarterback group, making strategic selection crucial.
Identifying and drafting a player who can immediately impact and grow with the team will be a key focus for Arizona’s scouting department. The synergy between a quarterback and his receivers is essential for offensive success, making this area a priority for the Cardinals in the draft.
Interior Offensive Line: Assessing the Draft’s Talent Pool
While the Cardinals have needs across the offensive line, the 2024 draft class does not appear to have a standout day-one pick among interior linemen. This situation presents a challenge for Arizona, emphasizing the importance of scouting and development to find talent in later rounds.
Strengthening the guard and center positions remains a priority, but the Cardinals may need to explore alternative strategies, including trades or free agency, to address these needs effectively.
Running Back Strategy: Planning for the Future Beyond James Conner
James Conner’s story has been inspirational, but the Cardinals are looking towards the future, aiming to identify a running back who can share the load and eventually take over as the starter.
The 2024 NFL Draft may not feature a first-round talent at running back, but several prospects are on the cusp. Arizona’s strategy could involve waiting until day three to make a selection, focusing on finding value and potential in later rounds to complement and eventually succeed Conner.
The Arizona Cardinals’ approach to the 2024 NFL Draft is a multifaceted strategy aimed at addressing immediate needs while also planning for the future. Through strategic trades and targeted selections, the Cardinals are poised to add key pieces to their roster, enhancing their competitiveness in the coming seasons.
The decisions made in this draft will significantly impact the team’s direction, underscoring the importance of each selection. As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on the Cardinals‘ front office to see how they navigate these crucial decisions, shaping the future of Arizona football.
