One need for Arizona that likely is not talked about too much in many circles is their need for a playmaker next to Jordan Hicks.
Hicks had quite the stat-stuffed first year with the Cardinals, finishing with 150 tackles and 3 interceptions, but most fans and analysts would agree that he could perhaps use a partner in crime.
Joe Walker stepped in admirably, but if the Cardinals feel that they need to spend some of their cash at linebacker, here are a few free agents for them to consider.
Cory Littleton
If there is a linebacker that would make the most sense for Arizona, it would seem to be Littleton. The quick linebacker had his own stat-stuffing season for the Rams in 2019 with 134 tackles, four sacks and two INTs.
Littleton would also help the Cardinals with one of their biggest issues on defense last season – covering tight ends — and he comes from a 3-4 scheme that would be easy for him to assimilate into Vance Joseph’s defense.
Joe Schober
If there is a second solid option for Arizona, it’s likely Schobert, although he would offer much of what Hicks already seemingly offers. He did have 133 tackles of his own and would likely be an upgrade over Walker, but might be more of a Plan B for Arizona.
Blake Martinez
Martinez is much like the aforementioned Schobert. He doesn’t have the speed of Littleton, but is a solid tackler and again would be an upgrade over what Arizona has on their roster, but may not necessarily upgrade the defense enough for Arizona to bring out the checkbook.
Nick Kwiatkoski
Kwiatkoski played fairly well in spot duty for Chicago, earning good grades from PFF for his work this past season and would seem to potentially be a very interesting Plan B for Arizona should they not pursue or cannot afford Littleton.
Darron Lee
The former first-round pick of the Jets certainly has the speed. However, he has disappointed overall, so much so that the Jets parted ways with him. He played well enough in spot duty for the Super Bowl Champ Chiefs, but given that he could never really get on the field consistently given KC’s linebacker woes seems to be a huge red flag.
Others
Jon Bostic is coming up on age 30 and might fill a short term need. Former Cardinal Josh Bynes would be an interesting add after his solid season with Baltimore. Todd Davis coming from Denver would be another name to watch.
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Ep. 257
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