Monti Ossenfort, Arizona Cardinals’ General Manager, often emphasizes that the NFL draft isn’t an easy task and involves uncertainties. This realization aids the Cardinals in their ceaseless quest for talent to boost the team’s firepower. Since the team’s move to Arizona in 1988, they have experienced a mix of triumphs and disappointments during the draft. As we look forward to the NFL draft commencing on April 24, it’s interesting to reflect on the team’s past successes and failures in the draft.
The Cardinals’ list of historical draft shortcomings starts with quarterback Josh Rosen, UCLA’s tenth overall pick in 2018. Rosen’s disappointing NFL career was not purely his making, as his surrounding circumstances and abrupt trade following his first season significantly affected his performance.
Ranked ninth is Buster Davis, a linebacker from Florida State, drafted 69th overall in 2007. His drafting came as an unforeseen move and his comparatively undersized stature limited his potential. Unfortunately, his career with the Cardinals ended before the regular season of his rookie year even started.
Isaiah Simmons from Clemson, selected eighth overall in 2020, also makes it to the list. Although adding Simmons’ name may seem harsh, he was never effectively utilized on defense by the Cardinals despite their numerous attempts.
Robert Nkemdiche, a defensive tackle from Ole Miss, selected 29th overall in 2016, initially appeared to be a smart choice for the Cardinals. However, his apparent lack of passion made it clear he was not a good pick for the Cardinals, making a forgettable impact before moving on.
Jonathan Cooper from North Carolina, selected 7th overall in 2013, inevitably had his career derailed by injuries. However, the Cardinals managed to maximize value by trading him to the Patriots for Chandler Jones. Although Cooper is mostly remembered for this trade, his potential was evident.
Andy Isabella from UMass, picked 62nd overall in 2019, was intended to be a replacement for the traded Rosen but unfortunately, he was unable to fill Rosen’s shoes.
Andre Wadsworth from Florida State, taken with the third overall pick in 1998, is another face on the list of draft letdowns. Recurring knee injuries and poor productivity cut his NFL journey short after just three seasons.
Bryant Johnson from Penn State and Calvin Pace from Wake Forest, both picks from 2003, share the third spot on the list. They were chosen after trading a far more promising number 6 overall pick, making their less than stellar performances even more disappointing.
Wendell Bryant, 12th overall pick from Wisconsin in 2002, had a promising career cut short by substance abuse issues. His subsequent indefinite suspension was the final blow to his career. Matt Leinart from USC, selected 10th overall in 2006, rounds out the list of disappointments with a plethora of unrealized expectations.
Now, let’s turn to the Cardinals’ commendable draft choices. Starting at number 10 is Trey McBride from Colorado State, picked 55th overall in 2022. Despite the initial uncertainty around his selection, McBride proved himself with impressive stats, becoming one of the finest tight ends in the league.
Darnell Dockett, a defensive tackle from Florida State and the 64th pick in 2004, is one of the team’s best finds. His unrivaled performance over 11 seasons coupled with his unforgettable persona left an indelible mark on the franchise.
Then we have Karlos Dansby from Auburn, picked 33rd overall in 2004. Dansby served the Cardinals commendably for 14 seasons, and his return to Arizona always ushered in moments of brilliance.
Larry Centers from Stephen F. Austin, picked 115th overall in 1990, was a boon for the Cardinals. He boasts the record for the most career receptions by a running back, making him a value pick for the franchise.
Adrian Wilson from North Carolina State brought strength and worth to the team. Despite being the fourth choice in the 2001 draft, he emerged as an iconic figure in the secondary line of the Cardinals.
Budda Baker, from Washington, selected 36th overall in 2017, serves as another shining beacon of the team’s drafting prowess. Thus far, Baker has seven Pro Bowl appearances and has engraved his name amongst Arizona’s all-time best players.
Patrick Peterson from LSU, the 5th overall pick in 2011, has fulfilled and surpassed the expectations set for him. He spent 10 glorious years with the Cardinals, earning multiple Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections, and recently hung up his cleats.
Next up is Anquan Boldin from Florida State, the 54th pick in the 2003 draft. Boldin’s talent on the field left a significant impact, and he stands high in the Cardinals’ record books for his extensive contributions.
Aeneas Williams, a small school gem and a third-round selection from Southern in 1991, turned into a Hall of Famer and a cherished Cardinal. With multiple Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections, Williams is considered one of the franchise’s finest.
Larry Fitzgerald, the 3rd overall pick from Pittsburgh in 2004, is undoubtedly the most iconic figure in Cardinals’ history. Fitzgerald’s unyielding excellence set him apart, and his dedication to the team has cemented his legacy. The only issue pending now is his inevitable induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, scheduled for the next year.
Finally, it’s worth mentioning Pat Tillman, the seventh-round pick in 1998 from the local Arizona State. Tillman’s patriotism, unparalleled service, and the impact he left on the Cardinals is seared into the franchise’s history.
The post Arizona Cardinals’ Triumphs and Tribulations in Historical NFL Draft appeared first on Real News Now.
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