The official start of the 2020 NFL year is set to begin on Wednesday when free agency kicks off.
The Arizona Cardinals played exceptionally well in their 2019 campaign, finishing their run with an overall record of 5-10-1. Although they finished last in the NFC West, the Cardinals showcased an intriguing offense that has plenty of room for growth.
Their rookie quarterback Kyler Murray had a phenomenal season as he showed plenty of flashes of star potential. Murray finished off the season with 3,722 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and only 12 interceptions. The 22-year-old also earned the 2019 AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award.
Despite the success in their rookie quarterback, the Cardinals still have positions they must improve in order to compete for a playoff spot this upcoming season. The Cardinals are projected to have around $39.7 million in cap space, according to overthecap.com.
Here are two free agents the Cardinals should avoid.
Robby Anderson, WR
The Cardinals will need to sign a playmaking receiver this offseason in order for them to stage a run for the playoffs. Although they have Larry Fitzgerald and Christian Kirk, they still don't have a true No. 1 outside receiver.
One player the Cardinals might possibly sign this offseason is Robby Anderson. Although he would be a nice addition to their receiving core, he isn't a player you can rely on. According to Spotrac, Anderson is worth $12.8 million on the open market. At that price, the Cardinals should simply look at other options in the open market.
This past season, Anderson had 52 receptions for 779 yards and five touchdowns for the Jets. The 26-year-old finished the season third on the Jets in catches and second in receiving yards. However, he was very inconsistent throughout his time with the Jets. With that being said, it’s hard to imagine Anderson becoming a No. 1 receiver with the Cardinals.
Jack Conklin, OT
The Cardinals will certainly need to improve their offensive line this offseason as Murray was sacked 26 times during the 2019 campaign. One player that Cardinals might look to sign is Pro Bowler Jack Conklin. However, the Cardinals shouldn't sign him this free agency.
The former first-round pick has a history of injuries he has suffered from throughout his career. In 2018, Conklin missed seven games due to knee and concussion issues. The Cardinals simply can't afford to risk any injuries next season as they'll seek to snap their five-season playoff drought. Nevertheless, the Cardinals should seek to sign an offensive tackle that isn't as injury prone as Conklin.
Follow Us
Subscribe