The Arizona Cardinals, now officially out of the playoffs, are likely starting to plan for next year. They have already begun looking at their own soon-to-be free agents, inking tight end Maxx Williams to an extension and engaging in talks with D.J. Humphries.
While the season isn’t over yet, there are several players the Cardinals may be keeping their eyes on that may be good free agent pickups and ones that fans should keep an eye on too.
Packers OT Bryan Bulaga
Bulaga is far more likely to return to the Packers than anything else, but their cap situation next year isn’t great, so there’s a possibility that they could move on from Bulaga like they have with other offensive line veterans recently, like T.J. Lang in recent years.
If that is the case, Arizona would be wise to make use of the veteran to upgrade their right tackle position.
Colts TE Eric Ebron
Arizona does not use the tight end a lot, but it’s also likely because there isn’t a great receiving threat at the position. The aforementioned Maxx Williams is getting lots of playing time but is known more as a blocker.
Ebron would not only provide a great big Target for Kyler Murray, he would be a great mismatch and could line up out wide in Kliff Kingsbury’s offense.
Rams LB Cory Littleton
One team to watch with their free agents would is the Rams. They’re going to have a hard time paying anyone with the expected contract cornerback Jalen Ramsey will sign, combined with their existing large contacts.
Littleton is likely the odd man out. He already plays in a 3-4 defense and would be an upgrade to the inside linebacker position, providing a speed element next to Jordan Hicks consistent tackling.
Ravens DL Michael Pierce
Pierce has been a consistent piece in the Ravens 3-4 front, and his services likely would be retained. If not, Arizona would be wise to scoop up the veteran to give themselves an upgrade at 3-4 DE.
Broncos DL Derek Wolfe
Similarly to Pierce, Wolfe has been steady in Denver’s 3-4 defense and it would make a lot of sense to reunite him with Vance Joseph if they are to continue to build up his 3-4 defense.
Buccaneers OLB Shaquille Barrett
Speaking of a reunion, Barrett has blossomed now that he is a starter in Tampa Bay. Barrett toiled for years in Denver’s defense but would make an excellent pairing with Chandler Jones to fortify Arizona’s pass rush.
The biggest issue? He may cost more than Arizona is willing to pay.
Honorable mentions
Two very interesting pending free agents that are not likely to go to the desert are Chris Harris and Chris Jones.
Kansas City is very likely to resign Jones, but should he hit the open market, Arizona should be very interested. And if the Cards trade Patrick Peterson, Harris becomes very interesting.
Listen to the latest from Cards Wire’s Jess Root on his podcast, Rise Up, See Red. Subscribe on Apple podcasts or Stitcher Radio.
