With 24 hours to go until the first round of the NFL draft, we’ve heard just about every scenario for the Arizona Cardinals at some point. The Cards’ names have come up in quite a few trade up rumors in the past few weeks, while others believe a move down is more likely.
In such a top-heavy first round, it’s impossible to ignore the trade-up rumors, particularly after such a quiet free agency period for the Cards. Perhaps the team has been waiting to make their big splash in the draft.
One possibility for the Cardinals, should one of their coveted first-round prospects fall out of the top ten, is the Houston Texans. Sitting at pick 13, the Texans’ pick is within striking distance of landing a top prospect, while avoiding giving up a king’s ransom to move into the Top-10.
NFL Media’s Jim Trotter reported a conversation he had with Texans’ general manager Nick Caserio. When asked about pick No. 13, Caserio said there’s “maybe a 50-60% chance” they use the selection.
Pick No. 13 is an ideal selection for the Cardinals, especially if Alabama WR Jameson Williams (whom they view as a future star) is on the board. The Philadelphia Eagles, sitting two spots later at pick No. 15, are major threats to take a wide receiver. The Cards’ interest in this class of wideouts has been made very clear and it would be wise to move in front of the teams in need of help at the position. The Saints and Chargers, picking after the Eagles, are also in need of another receiving presence.
The Cards could also opt to move up for an edge rusher, should one fall. There’s still a huge void at that position following the loss of Chandler Jones. Given the team’s pursuit of former Cardinal Haason Reddick in free agency, it’s evident they are looking for premier help at the position prior to kickoff in September.
What would a trade look like for the Cardinals to move up ten spots?
- They give up pick No. 23 and 87 (third round) and their 2023 second-round selection to get pick No. 13.
When in need of receiver help, call up the Houston Texans. It’s certainly worked before.
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