The Arizona Cardinals had a successful season in 2021, though it ultimately ended with an early playoff exit at the hands of the division-rival Los Angeles Rams. While it was a disappointing end, the Cardinals feel like a team on the rise. They were the best team in the NFL record-wise for nearly the entire first half of the season, led by star quarterback Kyler Murray and stud defensive lineman J.J. Watt. However, both Murray and Watt succumbed to injuries and the Cardinals' play slipped as the year went on. This offseason, the Cardinals lost talented pass rusher Chandler Jones and wide receiver Christian Kirk to free agency, though they were able to bring back Zach Ertz. With the 2022 NFL Draft less than a month away, the Cardinals can begin to plug up any holes on the roster, such as at wide receiver or on an offensive line that could do with an upgrade. Armed with the 23rd pick in the draft, the Cardinals are positioned fairly well to make an impactful selection. Fortunately for them, there are some talented prospects at positions of need. That said, here are the three best players the Cardinals can select with the 23rd pick in the draft.
3 Best Players Cardinals Can Select With 23rd Pick In NFL Draft
3. Jameson Williams
The Cardinals have to at least consider a wide receiver at pick 23. The team lost Kirk to free agency and A.J. Green may not be returning. That leaves superstar wideout DeAndre Hopkins and last year's second round pick Rondale Moore on the depth chart. It has the makings of a strong offense, though Arizona could also use another weapon for Murray to throw to. Enter Jameson Williams. Williams had a standout year at Alabama, totaling 79 catches for 1,572 yards and 15 touchdowns. He was the best receiver in the nation all year long and would have undoubtedly been the top wideout selected if not for an ACL injury. Williams is expected to be ready for training camp though, and would be a wise investment as a big-play threat to add a new dimension to the Cardinals' offense.
2. George Karlaftis
Losing Chandler Jones hurts. Jones was metronome-like, as he was practically a lock for double-digit sacks every year. There's no replacing that. However, the Cardinals can try with someone like George Karlaftis of Purdue. Karlaftis graded out as a solid prospect on NFL.com and could immediately step in and provide some youth to replace Jones. The former Boilermakers pass rusher is a bit raw, having played just two full college seasons. However, Karlaftis flashed as a disruptive presence in those two years and would be a wise investment for the future.
1. Trevor Penning
The Cardinals need to inject some youth into their offensive line, which features three starters past the age of 30. What better position to fill than one that has a primary job description of protecting Murray? Penning, who was lauded by scouts for his “vicious” nature on the field, would bring a level of nasty to the Arizona offensive line. Kelvin Beachum is the team's incumbent tackle on the right side. Beachum didn't grade out particularly well via Pro Football Focus, suggesting that the Cardinals could use an upgrade. Penning would be a wise pick if he's available.
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