NFL Free Agency: 5 teams that should sign Jason Pierre-Paul

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Nov 30, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Detailed view of an Arizona Cardinals helmet on the sidelines before a game against the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 30, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Detailed view of an Arizona Cardinals helmet on the sidelines before a game against the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

Arizona Cardinals

Perhaps the greatest key to success for Jason Pierre-Paul’s career going forward will be to join an elite defense that would benefit from the added depth of his arrival. Pierre-Paul is still a tremendous talent, but for the transition he will need to make, he is not best suited to be the centerpiece of a defense.

There may not be a better fit for him this NFL Free Agency period than with the Arizona Cardinals.

Arizona boasted the No. 5 defense in the NFL last season, ranking in the top-10 in the league in passing yards, rushing yards and points allowed. The team features one of the most well-rounded defensive units in football, with defensive tackle Calais Campbell, cornerback Patrick Peterson and safety Tyrann Mathieu being selected to the Pro Bowl.

The major area where the Cardinals need to improve this offseason is in their pass rush, primarily by adding depth on the outside.

Arizona finished 2015 tied for 26th in the league in sacks with just 27 on the season. Dwight Freeney was the major source of these sacks, recording eight, his highest total since 2011. He is also 36 years old, however, and it will be difficult for the aging pass rusher to replicate this performance.

The Cardinals would be wise to add depth at the pass-rushing outside linebacker position, and Pierre-Paul’s athleticism and proven ability to reach the quarterback makes this an intriguing possibility.

Next: Jacksonville Jaguars