At first glance, it seems that the Arizona Cardinals missed their primary need, by not taking an edge rusher. However the draft can never be viewed in such a black and white way. Looking at this class again it looks like the Cardinals dramatically improved their defense, and if a number of these picks work out they should be a pretty good shape.
With the 26th overall pick they took DT Dan Williams and he will be the Nose Tackle in their 3-4 defense. A dominant NT is something all 3-4 team covet, and Williams should be exactly that.
In the second round they selected LB Darryl Washington. He figures to be the replacement at weak side inside LB for the departed Karlos Dansby. Washington was the fastest LB in this draft, and he should make an impact from day one.
With the 88th pick in the third round the team took WR Andre Roberts. This pick was made to make up for the loss of Anquan Boldin. He is an underrated small school star, and he is a polished route runner with great hands.
In the fourth round the Cardinals took a flyer on O’Brien Schofield. They hope he recovers from an late season injury, and that he can develop into the edge rusher this defense so badly needs.
In the fifth round The Cardinals selected QB John Skelton from Fordham. This team has little or no faith in starter Matt Leinart and they had to take another QB prospect to begin his development process.
With their sixth round pick the Cardinals bring in CB Jorrick Calvin, who looks to be a pretty good DB and will serve in a backup role to start his career.
With their last pick in this draft the Cardinals selected TE Jim Dray. He looks to bring some stability and continuity to this team’s TE position, and is another piece for their wide open offensive attack.
Now a more complete look at the 2010 Cardinals draft class:
Round One (26)- DT Dan Williams Tennessee
Round Two (97)- LB Daryl Washington TCU
Round Three (88)- WR Andre Roberts Citadel
Round Four (130)- DE O’Brien Schofield Wisconsin
Round Five (155)- QB John Skelton Fordham
Round Six (201)- DB Jorrick Calvin Troy
Round Seven (233)- TE Jim Dray Stanford
Related Links:
• Arizona Cardinals news and notes
• 2010 NFL Draft initial team grades
• The Business of the NFL
• MTR Football.com
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