2017 NFL Draft: Arizona Cardinals 7-round mock
The Arizona Cardinals face an extremely important 2017 NFL Draft. Here’s a seven-round mock to help build for the future.
Entering the 2016 NFL season, everyone saw the Arizona Cardinals as Super Bowl contenders. However, they’ll enter the 2017 NFL Draft with the 13th-overall pick after finishing with a 7-8-1 record. Injuries and inconsistency cost them a great chance at winning the Super Bowl. The Cardinals have already lost some important players in free agency, including starting strong safety Tony Jefferson. They’ll look to restock their arsenal at the draft.
Arizona must address their receiving core, especially with Larry Fitzgerald considering retirement. They should also look to draft their quarterback of the future with Carson Palmer starting to show his age. On top of this, Arizona needs to add some starters on their defense. It’s a tough job, but the Cardinals must climb out of the hole they’ve dug. They own picks 13, 45, 77, 119, 157, 179, 197 and 231. Here’s a seven-round mock draft for them.
John Ross
Wide Receiver, Washington
Last season, the Arizona Cardinals lack of offensive playmakers killed them. While David Johnson nearly put up 1,000 yards rushing and 1,000 yards receiving and Fitzgerald had over 1,000 receiving yards, their next best receiver had merely 568 yards. Ross is arguably the best deep threat in the 2017 draft. He should help the Cardinals immediately in 2017 and help them survive life without Fitzgerald.
Ross should be an excellent fit with Bruce Arians’ vertical offense. Mike Williams would be a great pick here, but the 40 yard dash record holder is a much better fit. Palmer does his best when he has vertical options. Ross can beat just about anyone down the field and can do damage after the catch. He has health issues, but his reward far outweighs his risk. The Cardinals would be getting their star receiver for the future in Ross.