Finding The Next Quarterback

Over the past 12 months, three of the four teams in the NFC West have changed head coaches.  The Cardinals became the fourth with the hiring of Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Steve Wilks.

Wilks and Cardinals general manager Steve Keim have a clear goal for this offseason.  The franchise lost quarterback Carson Palmer due to retirement and must now lay the groundwork for a new future at quarterback.  New offensive coordinator Mike McCoy is recognized for expecting a lot from his quarterbacks in terms of pre-snap recognition.  Whether the Cardinals go with a veteran or a young quarterback from the draft, they will have to be capable of processing a lot of information.

The Cardinals could choose to bring back Drew Stanton and/or Blaine Gabbert and buy themselves a year of development for a young draft pick.  The Cardinals hold the 15th overall pick in the upcoming draft, not quite high enough to get their hands on some of the higher rated prospects in this draft.  A move up the draft board would be required, yet is not typical of what Steve Keim has looked to do during his tenure.

The Cardinals defense remains a strength as the team posted another top 10 defensive ranking.  This without the benefit of running back David Johnson, who's performances have kept them fresh and off the field when he's playing at his typical level.  

The Cardinals are going through a lot of change. What happens at quarterback must first be answered for this franchise to move forward.

Offensive Ranking: 22nd

Defensive Ranking: 6th

Key Free Agents:  

Drew Stanton - QB - The 34 year old quarterback started four games in 2017 and has been a quality backup in the league.  Should land a free agent deal to provide protection for an established starter or play the role of bridge starter until a young quarterback is ready to play.

Justin Bethel - CB - Lost his starting job in 2017 but can play as a capable backup.

Tyvon Branch - SS - Was enjoying a solid season before tearing his ACL late in the season.  Will face a long rehabilitation.

Potential Cuts/Restructures:  

Adrian Peterson - RB - Played well as a Band-Aid fix for the Cardinals running game after the injury to David Johnson. Peterson will turn 33 years old.  Cap savings: $2.8M

Phil Dawson - K - Dawson missed eight field goals in 2017.  The 43 year old kicker does not have a big cap number, but he should face competition for his roster spot.  Cap savings: $3M

Mike Iupati - G - The 30 year old guard has had trouble with injuries since signing in Arizona.  Iupati was only on the field for one game in 2017 before an injury ended his season.  Cap savings: $6.3M