The Arizona Cardinals had two of their rookies play prominent roles in 2019. Quarterback Kyler Murray and cornerback Byron Murphy, the team’s two top picks in the draft, started every single game as rookies.
As we look ahead to 2020, a few of the 2019 rookies should see their roles increase.
WR Andy Isabella
While the team was not disappointed in him, he certainly was disappointing to fans, who were very excited about the prospect of someone with his frame and speed. He still has Larry Fitzgerald and Christian Kirk ahead of him in the slot but he needs to be a much bigger part offense in his second year than he was.
DL Zach Allen
He was expected to be a starter as a rookie after Darius Philon was released but his rookie season was derailed by injury. He only played in four games. In 2020, depending on what the Cardinals do in free agency, he could be looking at the starting lineup. At minimum, he should be a key rotational player getting a lot of playing time.
WR Hakeem Butler
Butler never got to play a snap because he spent all season on injured reserve. Butler should find playing time in 2020 but he isn’t assured of anything.
WR KeeSean Johnson
Johnson began the season lined up to play a prominent role and then saw his role decrease until he wasn’t active the entire last month despite being healthy. He should become part of the rotation in Year 2.
Listen to the latest from Cards Wire’s Jess Root on his podcast, Rise Up, See Red. Subscribe on Apple podcasts or Stitcher Radio.
Ep. 255
Ep. 254
