The Arizona Cardinals are trying to create a new path forward after enduring a rough 4-13 season during which their performance on both sides of the field was inadequate.
To do so, they have made two seismic changes at the top, firing head coach Kliff Kingsbury and general manager Steve Keim while simultaneously announcing J.J. Watt’s retirement and contemplating the trade of DeAndre Hopkins.
On top of this, there are nearly thirty free agents whose status with the team remains unresolved. Clearly, the Cardinals are setting out on a brave endeavor as it is evident that considerable upheaval is taking place within their organization, but one can only hope these changes will lead to improvements for a team desperately in need of success in the NFL 2023 season and beyond.
Targeting Dre’Mont Jones
Understanding the dire need for quality defensive line physicality and given the currently available $14.6 million dollars in projected cap space on OverTheCap, the Arizona Cardinals may consider targeting Denver Broncos’ DL Dre’Mont Jones.
Pro Football Focus (PFF) suggests that with Vance Joseph still part of the Cardinals’ defensive coordinator, this not only provides familiarity between both parties since Joseph was head coach of the Broncos from 2017-18 when Jones was drafted; but mainly, it further validates the potential for a successful partnership given their previous working relationship.
“While it seems like the Cardinals and interior defender Zach Allen should be able to work out an extension after a breakout 2022 campaign, perhaps they look in a different direction and add a player with a little more pass-rush juice.”
This is a role that Jones can fulfill. Jones had a promising third season with the Broncos. Despite going down with a hip injury, Jones recorded 47 tackles and 6.5 sacks in 13 starts, showing great signs of what he is capable of in the upcoming seasons.
These factors could serve as a positive driving force toward addressing a much-needed boost in the Cards.
His expected payday after his rookie contract comes at an opportune time for the Cardinals, who are currently evaluating a few soon-to-be free agents alongside potential draft pick Jalen Carter of Georgia to round out their defensive line.
