The Arizona Cardinals are at a pivotal point in their journey toward reclaiming glory in the NFL. With the 2024 season approaching, the team is keen on building a roster that can compete at the highest level. The trade market offers a golden opportunity for the Cardinals to address key weaknesses and enhance their competitiveness. Identifying and acquiring the right talents can make the difference between another mediocre season and a playoff berth. Here are three players who stand out as ideal trade targets for the Cardinals to solidify their 2024 roster: Tee Higgins, Davante Adams, and Cameron Heyward.
Reflecting on the 2023 Season
As the Cardinals prepare for the 2024 season, they are banking heavily on quarterback Kyler Murray to lead the charge. The team bolstered their offense by drafting Marvin Harrison Jr, the top wide receiver prospect from Ohio State. Head coach Jonathan Gannon, now entering his second season, is starting to see his offensive vision come to life. With an estimated $29 million in cap space, the Cardinals have the flexibility to pursue high-impact players in the trade market. Despite the progress, both the offensive and defensive units need further strengthening before training camp. The 2024 season presents significant challenges, and the team is still a work in progress. Given the abundance of young talent, the Cardinals should focus on acquiring skilled veterans to complete their roster.
Here we'll look at the three players whom the Arizona Cardinals can consider their best target targets to round out the 2024 roster.
Tee Higgins, WR
Cincinnati Bengals' wide receiver Tee Higgins has emerged as a prime trade target for a lot of teams. Higgins has requested a trade, aligning financially with the Cardinals, who have the capacity to offer him a lucrative extension.
Acquiring Higgins would likely involve giving up a future Day 2 draft pick. The Cardinals, who hold picks in every round of the 2025 draft and drafted 12 players in 2023, can afford to part with a later selection to secure a vital threat in their passing game. At 25, Higgins still has a bright future ahead. With 24 receiving touchdowns and 3,684 yards on 257 receptions over four seasons, he is ready to take the next step as a No. 1 receiver.
Although the Cardinals have shown interest in former Jacksonville Jaguars' WR Zay Jones, they shouldn't settle for a less impactful player. Pairing Harrison with a legitimate No. 1 target like Higgins would create a formidable offense around Murray. This would elevate their passing threat significantly.
With the financial means to offer a competitive extension, the Cardinals need to convince the Bengals to part with Higgins. If successful, this trade could transform Arizona's offensive dynamics.
Davante Adams, WR
Despite being underappreciated throughout his career, Las Vegas Raiders' wide receiver Davante Adams remains an elite option for the Cardinals. His future in Las Vegas is uncertain, making him a legitimate trade target.
Adams is set to earn approximately $25.3 million this season. This means the Cardinals would need to part with a high draft pick and possibly release some players to accommodate his salary. At 31, Adams offers an established, elite No. 1 receiver presence. This could be crucial for a team aiming to compete in the playoffs immediately.
In a “down year,” Adams still recorded 103 receptions for 1,144 yards and eight touchdowns in 2023. His precise route-running could perfectly complement Harrison's deep threat capabilities. The Cardinals must be ready to navigate the complexities of acquiring Adams. However, his proven talent and leadership could make a significant impact on their playoff aspirations.
Cameron Heyward, DE
Acquiring Pittsburgh Steelers' defensive end Cameron Heyward is a long shot. That said, his presence would dramatically bolster the Cardinals' front seven. Drafting Missouri Tigers edge rusher Darius Robinson was a step in the right direction. However, a veteran like Heyward could elevate Robinson's development.
Heyward is a six-time Pro Bowler. He is known for his consistency and leadership. Even though the Steelers might be reluctant to trade him, he is in a contract year, and it might be fairer to allow him to move to a team willing to extend him despite his age.
At 35, extending Heyward would likely cost around $20 million annually. However, his experience and skill set perfectly fit the Cardinals' defensive scheme, offering both on-field performance and locker room leadership.
Looking Ahead
The Arizona Cardinals need to make strategic moves in the trade market to complete their 2024 roster effectively. Targeting Tee Higgins, Davante Adams, and Cameron Heyward addresses critical needs on both offense and defense. Higgins brings youthful dynamism and playmaking ability, Adams offers proven elite performance and mentorship, and Heyward provides defensive stability and leadership.
By securing these three players, the Cardinals can enhance their roster, making a strong push for the playoffs and potentially beyond. Bold moves in the trade market are essential for transforming the team's fortunes and achieving competitive success.
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