NFL Free Agency 2012: Should The Cardinals Target Mario Manningham?

Continuing on in the wide receiver section of our free agency series, let's take a look at Mario Manningham, who most recently played for the Super Bowl champion Giants. But first, let's see what the voters thought of the idea of Lee Evans wearing Cardinal Red. 56% were in favor of the idea barring his health and whether or not he still has that burst to get down the field. He would be a cheap pickup, so I could see him being an option.

Now on to Manningham. On the Giants, he became part of a triple threat group along with Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks. Most will remember him for the phenomenal catch that he made in the Super Bowl to sink the hopes of Patriots fans around the world. Now he is an unrestricted free agent and could be looking for a new home. Should the Cardinals bring him to the desert?

Manningham could be just the guy the Cardinals have been looking for. He has the ability to stretch the field, has good hands and can get separation from opposing defensive backs. He is only 25 years old and has the potential to be a perennial 1,000 yard receiver (he almost was in 2010 with 944 yards).

While Manningham did play well last year and became a lethal target for Eli Manning, he does have some pitfalls. Manningham had 6 dropped passes in 2011, according to Pro Football Focus. He also needs to improve his run blocking as a receiver, which is something that every team requires their wideouts to do.

One of the biggest hurdles in obtaining Manningham would be the type of contract he might be looking for. Many have speculated that because of the big catch he made in the Super Bowl, his value has actually increased. He has loads of potential and could be part of another great receiving corps on another team, but it will highly depend on the cost.

If his demands are reasonable and they do not prohibit the Cardinals from signing other key pieces that they need, then I think they should go for him. He could be the true #2 guy they are looking for, allowing Andre Roberts to play in the slot. Manningham is looking to play in a warm weather place and on a good team (hence the fact that he's not signing with the Browns) and the Cards can certainly provide both of those things.

What are your thoughts on Mario Manningham? Should the Cardinals attempt to sign him? Tell us what you think in the comments section and vote in the poll.

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