Arizona Cardinals: 5 burning questions in 2018

The Cardinals were the very definitely of NFL mediocrity last season with an 8-8 record. If they want to improve, they need to answer these five questions.

The Arizona Cardinals are the least talked about team in the NFL West, but that may work to Steve Wilks’ advantage. The team’s new head coach has a real opportunity to fly under the radar and surprise the league in 2018.

That doesn’t mean it’s going to be easy. He inherits a franchise with a lot of talent but also a lot of holes. The offense, in particular, needs attention. That might be challenging for Wilks considering his background as a defensive coordinator. He’ll be forced to rely on Mike McCoy to help the offense reach its full potential.

The first question the Cardinals have to answer is how much production they can get from their rookies. This talented wideout may be the best of the bunch.

5. How much will Christian Kirk play in year one?

Larry Fitzgerald is the biggest name on the Cardinals’ offense, but at some point the Cardinals need another wide receiver to step up. The fact that Arizona spent a second round pick on Kirk shows they believe he has the potential to be that player.

Kirk looked electric at times during his collegiate career at Texas A&M. He lacks the size of a classic No. 1 wide receiver, but he put up big numbers against quality SEC opposition. His speed and ability to produce yards after the catch could make him a star in the NFL.

That doesn’t mean he’s going to be a star immediately though. NFL rosters are littered with wide receivers who have needed a year or two in the pros to really make their presence felt. The Cardinals will hope Kirk can make an immediate impact for their offense. His ability to do so will have a large impact on the team’s win total in 2018.