The Arizona Cardinals have historically been fond of versatile defensive players. They have selected Isaiah Simmons, Budda Baker, Tyrann Mathieu and Deone Buccanon as players who can fill multiple roles.
In this year’s draft class, they have at least some interest in yet another versatile defender, as they have been in contact with LSU safety JaCoby Stevens.
According to Justin Melo, the Cardinals are one of several teams with whom he has had virtual communications.
#LSU LB/S Jacoby Stevens has met virtually/communicated with the #Patriots (multiple times), #Bills, #49ers, #Bengals, #Vikings, #Packers, #Jets, #Cardinals and #Falcons.
An intriguing defender that can play all over the field. #NFLDraft
— Justin M (@JustinM_NFL) March 16, 2021
Stevens began his LSU career as a receiver and switched to safety his sophomore year. He was a little taller than 6-1 and weighed in at 216 pounds at his pro day.
In three seasons as a safety, he had 190 tackles, 9.5 sacks, 21.5 tackles for loss and four interceptions. In LSU’s championship season in 2019, he had 92 tackles, five sacks, nine tackles for loss and three interceptions.
He is perhaps a Day 3 pick who can play in the box. Some team might move him to a cover linebacker position.
He should be able to contribute on special teams right away. He would be a good fit for the Cardinals, as they appear to have a safety spot vacant on the roster that was once filled by Chris Banjo.
With four Day 3 picks in the draft next month, Stevens is a name to potentially pay attention to.
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