With their first selection in the 2011 NFL Draft, the Arizona Cardinals drafted Patrick Peterson, the cornerback out of LSU that many believe is the best player in the draft. Cornerback was not really considered a team need, considering Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Greg Toler are both young and talented football players. But Peterson was clearly the best player available, so it was a pick to make.
But the Cards still have many other needs. They desperately need to improve their pass rush. They would be wise to find a physical inside linebacker. It is rumored that there is a need at quarterback (whoops, didn't use the sarcasm font) and the offensive line could certainly be upgraded. There hasn't been a decent tight end on the team since Jay Novacek left almost two decades ago.
Arizona has the sixth pick on Friday evening. There are a lot of great players that could be available.
In the pass rushing department, still out there are Da'Quan Bowers, Brooks Reed, Justin Houston and Akeem Ayers.
At tight end, the talented Kyle Rudolph is on the board.
At quarterback, Ryan Mallett, Andy Dalton and Colin Kaepernick are all still there.
On the offensive line, Ben Ijalama and Marcus Cannon are still undrafted.
Kent Somers tweeted something I agree with in noting that it is unsure whether the Cardinals could wait until the third round to look at pass rushers. There still are some very good ones and they will assuredly be all gone by the 69th pick.
But what do you think? Given the names available, which would be your preference?