The Arizona Cardinals have basically checked off all of their biggest offseason needs in the first few days of free agency. Here is a rundown of what they did.
They traded David Johnson, unloading his contract. They retained Kenyan Drake with the transition tag.
They acquired a No. 1 receiver by trading for DeAndre Hopkins.
They added a big defensive lineman by agreeing to sign Jordan Phillips.
They added a pass rusher by agreeing to sign Devon Kennard.
They added an inside linebacker in an agreed deal with De’Vondre Campbell.
What is left for the Cardinals to address? They have a few secondary needs.
Backup quarterback
As of now, the Cardinals have Drew Anderson and former CFL dual-threat quarterback Chris Streveler. Brett Hundley, last year’s backup, is a free agent. It would seem logical for them to bring him back, although they could let Streveler and Anderson battle for the job.
Kyle Sloter, who spent time on the Cardinals’ practice squad last year, was recently released by the Detroit Lions. Perhaps they will consider him and let the three battle it out, looking for a bargain.
Right tackle
Justin Murray, who started 12 games last season, was retained with a qualifying offer, and the Cardinals appear comfortable with him as the starter again. However, with no other proven tackle on the roster, they will want to bring a veteran in who has playing experience. Don’t expect that player to cost much.
Defensive line
The Cardinals added a starter in Jordan Phillips. Their starting lineup now looks like it will be Phillips with Corey Peters and Zach Allen. Michael Dogbe and Miles Brown are depth. However, as Allen played only four games last season, they probably will not count on him to be a starter. They will re-sign either Jonathan Bullard or Zach Kerr, or sign another veteran with some starting experience to give Allen competition and strengthen the depth.
Cornerback/safety depth
The Cardinals’ starting lineup at cornerback and at safety seem set with Patrick Peterson, Robert Alford, Byron Murphy, Budda Baker and Jalen Thompson. However, there is no experience behind them. Expect them to add a veteran at both positions. That might be re-signing Chris Banjo at safety or bringing in a cornerback like Tramaine Brock (but not actually Brock).
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