Navigating the Crossroads: Arizona Cardinals’ Delicate Draft Balance
The Arizona Cardinals stand at a pivotal juncture as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches. Armed with the 16th overall pick and a total of six selections, General Manager Monti Ossenfort faces the delicate task of balancing immediate roster needs with the long-term vision for the franchise. 1 After an 8-9 finish in the 2024 season, a marked improvement, the Cardinals have shown they are on an upward trajectory. However, several key areas require bolstering if they aim to consistently compete in the highly competitive NFC West. The upcoming draft presents a golden opportunity to address these needs, but the path forward requires a nuanced approach, a careful walk along the line separating instant gratification and sustainable growth.
One of the most pressing needs for the Cardinals lies in fortifying their offensive line. Protecting quarterback Kyler Murray, the team’s cornerstone, is paramount. While the team’s offensive line ranked respectably in the previous season, there’s always room for improvement, particularly at the right tackle and guard positions, with some key contributors potentially entering free agency. Investing a high draft pick in a promising offensive lineman could provide immediate stability and long-term security for Murray, allowing him the time and space to effectively orchestrate the offense. Several talented offensive line prospects are expected to be available in the mid-first round, making this a potentially fruitful area for the Cardinals to target.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Cardinals must address their pass rush. While they made strides in the 2024 season, consistently generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks remains a crucial element for a successful defense. The Cardinals’ defense struggled to consistently disrupt opposing offenses, ranking in the bottom third of the league in pressure rate. With several edge defenders potentially departing in free agency, the need for a dynamic pass rusher is undeniable. The 2025 draft class boasts a number of intriguing edge prospects who could provide an immediate impact and develop into foundational players for the Cardinals’ defense. Utilizing their first-round pick, or even trading back into the first round to secure another selection, on a high-potential edge rusher could significantly elevate their defensive capabilities.
Another area of concern for the Cardinals is the cornerback position. While the team has some promising young talent in the secondary, adding a top-tier cornerback could provide much-needed stability and playmaking ability. The Cardinals allowed a significant number of yards per pass attempt last season, highlighting the need for improvement in coverage. The versatility of some cornerback prospects, capable of playing both outside and in the slot, could be particularly appealing to defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon, who values adaptability in his defensive backs.
Beyond these primary needs, the Cardinals could also look to add depth and talent at other positions. Wide receiver, despite the presence of Marvin Harrison Jr. and Trey McBride, could be an area for future investment, ensuring Kyler Murray has a consistent array of targets. Adding a dynamic playmaker at wide receiver could elevate their offensive game to new heights. Similarly, bolstering the defensive line depth, particularly at defensive tackle, could improve their run defense and provide interior pressure. While not as immediate as the needs at offensive line, edge rusher, and cornerback, these positions could be addressed in the middle to later rounds of the draft.
The challenge for Ossenfort lies in determining the optimal balance between addressing these immediate needs and adhering to a philosophy of drafting the best player available (BPA). Reaching for a player at a position of need when a significantly more talented player is available at another position can often lead to long-term regret. Conversely, neglecting glaring holes on the roster in favor of pure talent can hinder the team’s immediate competitiveness.
A successful draft strategy often involves a blend of both approaches. Identifying the team’s most critical needs allows the front office to prioritize certain positions. However, within those prioritized positions, selecting the player with the highest talent grade is crucial for maximizing the long-term potential of the roster. If the talent gap between a player at a need position and the BPA at another position is significant, the wiser move is often to take the more talented player and address the need through free agency or later draft picks.
The Cardinals’ six draft picks provide them with flexibility. They could use their first-round pick to address a premium position like offensive line or edge rusher. Their second and third-round picks could then be used to target another pressing need or to select a high-potential player who might have slipped down the board. The later rounds can be utilized to add depth, take flyers on developmental prospects, or address specific role player needs.
Furthermore, Ossenfort must also consider the potential for trades. The Cardinals could explore trading down from their first-round pick to acquire additional draft capital, allowing them to address multiple needs in the earlier rounds. Alternatively, they could consider trading up if they have their sights set on a specific elite prospect. These decisions require a thorough evaluation of the draft board and an understanding of the value of each pick.
Ultimately, the Arizona Cardinals’ success in the 2025 NFL Draft will hinge on their ability to navigate this delicate balance. By carefully assessing their needs, diligently evaluating the talent available, and strategically utilizing their draft capital, they can take a significant step towards building a sustainable contender. The line they must walk is one of measured aggression, addressing immediate concerns without sacrificing the long-term vision. This draft has the potential to be a defining moment for the franchise, setting the stage for their trajectory in the years to come.
