Should the Cardinals re-sign WR Christian Kirk?

The Arizona Cardinals’ starting offense could see some major changes in the coming weeks. With six of their key offensive skill players set to become free agents, one of the most prominent on that list is WR Christian Kirk, who has been with the team since being drafted in 2018. Kirk is set to hit free agency on March 14th after having his best season as a pro.

Following the departure of Larry Fitzgerald, Kirk was able to move into a full-time role in the slot, his natural position. He posted 77 receptions for 982 yards, both career highs. His big-play ability will be coveted by many others NFL teams as we grow closer to free agency. At just 25 years old, there is plenty of time for the Texas A&M product to grow even more as a pro.

According to ESPN’s Josh Weinfuss, Kirk is expected to have a hot market in free agency. While it’s fair to assume the Cardinals would like to have him back, will they be able to match the offers of other teams?

The Cardinals have a ton of needs to fill in the upcoming months. They’ll be looking to improve the cornerback, right guard, outside wide receiver and interior defensive line positions, among others. Spotrac has Kirk’s estimated market value to be nearly $12 million per year.

If Kirk walks, it likely is not because of his own ability, but rather his presumed heavy contract coupled with the Cardinals’ other needs. Additionally, the Cardinals spent a second round pick on Rondale Moore last season, who flashed star potential early in the season. Moore is likely viewed by the team as a slot receiver, which puts Kirk’s time in the Valley in question.

Kirk has developed a close bond with many of his teammates in Arizona. Tight end Maxx Williams came to Kirk’s defense in a similar Twitter post asking if Kirk should stay with the Cardinals.

Stay! 100% one of the best teammates I have ever had! Someone who always come to work and works on mastering his craft every single day!

— Maxx Williams (@williams_maxx) March 3, 2022

General manager Steve Keim echoed similar comments on Kirk at the NFL combine earlier this week.

“Christian has had a really nice career,” he said. “He’s the guy to come into the building and do everything right.”

Kirk knows Kingsbury’s system, and given his recent extension, that is extremely valuable to the Cardinals. If they can afford it, Steve Keim and the Cards should absolutely bring back Christian Kirk. However, it isn’t looking like they will be able to.