The Arizona Cardinals are expected to target an inside linebacker in free agency, as it was one of their biggest defensive weaknesses in 2019, especially in pass coverage. There are plenty of solid options, but most will be costly.
Who could be targets for the Cardinals?
Cory Littleton
Littleton has probably come up more than any other linebacker for a few reasons. He excels in coverage, having been a former defensive back. He is familiar, having played years for the Los Angeles Rams. And he fits in the Cardinals’ defense because defensive coordinator Vance Joseph runs a Wade Phillips defense. Phillips was DC for the Rams until he was let go this offseason.
It is estimated he will cost more than $10 million per year in a new contract but he would fit nicely, although he would buck a trend of the type of linebacker Joseph likes to have in his defenses.
His stats are staggering. In the last two seasons, he has averaged 130 tackles and has had 7.5 sacks, five interceptions, 22 pass breakups, two forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries.
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