Grading The Arizona Cardinals Draft

Arizona Cardinals
1 (8) Antrel Rolle; CB - Miami
2 (44) J.J. Arrington; RB - California
3 (75) Eric Green; CB - Virginia Tech
3 (95) Darryl Blackstock; OLB - Virginia
4 (111) Elton Brown; OG - Virginia
5 (168) Lance Mitchell; MLB - Oklahoma
7 (226) LeRon McCoy; WR - Indiana (Pa.)

Analysis: With needs at running back and cornerback, the Cardinals’ selection was made slightly easier during a run on backs early in the draft. Antrel Rolle will provide Dennis Green’s Arizona defense with a physical presence who has shown the ability to compete at the highest level. In showing better-than-expected closing speed in workouts, Rolle disproved any notion that he is not a quality prospect. With the departure of Duane Starks and Renaldo Hill this offseason, Rolle could become an immediate starter for the Cardinals.

Arrington may be one of the most underrated players in this draft. Due to his smallish stature (5-foot-9) Arrington slips on some draft boards, but this is one productive player, showing tremendous burst and vision. He has the speed and quickness to get to the outside and the strength to run between the tackles. He will work in the pass-blocking game, but lack of size can hamper his progress.

Green has the physical tools to play either corner or safety. With the state of the Arizona defensive backfield, he has the opportunity to step in and play right away. He has shown the tendency to get caught looking into the backfield too often, but should have a great opportunity with an Arizona defense looking to improve its athleticism. Green easily could slide over and become a free safety.

Blackstock is a 3-4 type linebacker and has the ability to get to the quarterback off the edge because of his quickness. He will work to out-race a lineman off the corner and is aggressive, but lacks the skills dropping back in the passing game. Blackstock s a solid player when the play is in front of him and could become a consistent performer in the right scheme.

Grade: A