The Arizona Cardinals exceeded expectations this season, winning eight games and competing for a division title. The Cardinals led the NFC West for much of the season before letting their spot slip away in the final weeks. Now, they shift their focus to the offseason. Despite their jump in success, this team still has glaring weaknesses that must be addressed. With free agency and the NFL draft on the horizon, the Cardinals have an opportunity to fix the holes on their roster and set themselves up to contend for a playoff spot in 2025. This three-round Arizona Cardinals mock draft is focused on targeting existing areas of need on the roster and positioning the team for success moving forward.
Three-Round Arizona Cardinals Mock Draft
Round 1, Pick 16: Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas OT
If there is one lesson to be learned from the 2024 NFL playoffs, teams should build through the trenches. The Philadelphia Eagles built the foundation of their roster on the offensive and defensive lines. The Cardinals should take a note out of Philadelphia’s playbook and draft Texas offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr.
Banks Jr. is capable of playing either offensive tackle or offensive guard. This makes him a perfect fit for an Arizona Cardinals offensive line that could use help at both spots. Banks is an athletic and technically sound lineman who uses his abilities to consistently beat opposing defenders. While he certainly has room to grow as a run blocker, he would be an excellent protector for Kyler Murray.
Round 2, Pick 47: Alfred Collins, Texas IDL
Arizona doubles up on Longhorns here with Texas defensive lineman Alfred Collins. The Cardinals are in desperate need of talent in their defensive front seven. In 2024, they finished in the bottom half of the league in both run defense and total yards allowed. Their defensive line lacks two things: size and depth. Drafting Alfred Collins in the second round would go a long way toward solving both issues.
With his massive 6’5” frame and overwhelming strength, Collins can be an anchor on the defensive line. His ability to shoot through gaps or power over interior offensive linemen makes him a dangerous player. If the Cardinals draft Collins, opposing offenses will be forced to scheme around him.
Round 3, Pick 78: Jalen Royals, Utah State WR
While Marvin Harrison Jr. had a successful rookie season, the Arizona Cardinals aren’t finished building their receiving core. Behind Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson, Arizona relies on the likes of Greg Dortch and Zach Pascal. They may look to equip Kyler Murray with another pass-catching weapon this offseason.
Jalen Royals is an athletic receiver who thrives with the ball in his hands. He can turn any quick pass into a long touchdown with his quick burst and elusiveness in the open field. Royals averaged 7.9 yards after the catch in 2024. With a strong base, he can beat the press consistently. While he is somewhat limited as a route runner, his role in Arizona could be limited to quick routes and screens early in his career.
Main Photo: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
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