The NFL draft has concluded and now, even though it seems way too early to do so, grades are being given. Of course, draft grades now are based on a balance of talent, value and need. Did teams pick up talented players without reaching and do they fit what they need now or moving forward?
The Arizona Cardinals get the highest possible grade from Pro Football Focus. PFF gave them an A+.
Four of the Cardinals’ six pick are mentioned and three specifically are praised. The selection of Isaiah Simmons in the first round was praised.
He played 100 or more snaps in 2019 at linebacker, strong safety, free safety, slot cornerback and edge defender. On top of that, he did everything that you could want a defender to do well, earning grades of 80.0 or higher as a run defender, pass rusher, tackler and coverage defender. He will probably end up playing primarily at linebacker in the NFL and figures to become one of the top coverage players and athletes at the position.
In the third round, tackle Josh Jones was a highly-rated player by PFF.
He really elevated his game this past season, though, with an overall grade of 93.4 that ranked second to Penei Sewell among all qualifying FBS offensive tackles.
Leki Fotu, the Cardinals’ first fourth-round pick has upside.
His ability to move the line of scrimmage suits him well in the run game, where he picked up an 83.4 grade in 2019, but he’s extremely limited as a pass rusher at this point. There’s a good chance he continues to improve in the NFL.
There is a chance that all six picks could contribute and make an impact on the team in 2020.
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Ep.265
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Ep. 264
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