Tier 3: Premier

These players are up-and-coming young players or established premier veterans. They’re essential to the team’s success moving forward and make their teammates around them better. Given the recent struggles of the Cardinals, they might not get the recognition they deserve yet. 

S Budda Baker

LB Jordan Hicks

WR Christian Kirk

LT D.J. Humphries

Budda Baker is the player in this tier who has shown the highest ceiling to this point. Coming off his first Pro Bowl selection as a safety, Baker is expected to take another jump next season. His versatility on the field is reminiscent of former Cardinal Tyrann Mathieu, a caliber of player that Baker certainly has the potential to become.

Christian Kirk has yet to become the type of player Cardinals fans believe he will be, but the flashes of talent have already showcased themselves. In his rookie year, Kirk was a bright spot in an otherwise non-existent offense. He had a few signature games(BAL, TB) in 2019, but was again hindered by a nagging injury. Should he remain healthy in 2020, he should break out into an elite player. The added presence of DeAndre Hopkins will help him as well.

D,J. Humphries had a great season after an injury-riddled start to his career. We gave him the nod into Tier 3, given that his production when healthy is undeniable. If he does remain healthy for the future and beyond, he will likely be protecting Kyler Murray’s blindside for a long time.

Jordan Hicks was a fantastic addition by Steve Keim and the front office. He lead the team with three interceptions from his inside linebacker position and was a tackling machine. He earned his spot on this list not just as a result of the year he had with the Cardinals, but also due to his play when he was a Philadelphia Eagle. He should be an anchor of the Cardinals defense for a long time.

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