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So there it is, you guys. The Arizona Cardinals have decided to select Michael Floyd, a wide receiver out of Notre Dame, with the 13th overall pick. Many of us saw this coming, but then again, there was just too much uncertainty surrounding this draft to truly get a good read. All of the trades and commotion involved with the first twelve picks certainly made the Cardinals' decision a bit cloudy.
But in the end, Floyd was their guy. After the jump, get some reactions and inside information that you may not have known prior to the beginning of the draft.
One of the Cardinals' top three needs coming into this draft was to grab a receiver that can take pressure off of perennial Pro Bowler, Larry Fitzgerald. According to Adam Schefter, the team had actually promised Fitz all along that this was at the top of their agenda:
Arizona told Larry Fitzgerald it would take Notre Dame WR Michael Floyd. Arizona's up. Let's see if true to word.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 27, 2012
For me, this pick makes perfect sense. Not only does it fill a need, but Floyd was easily one of the best players available on the board. He has immense talent as a 6'2", 220 pound pass catcher.
Floyd will come in and presumably be a starter from day one. He not only brings an elite pass catching ability with him, but his blocking skills are right on par with some of the best receivers already in the NFL. Ryan Williams and Beanie Wells will have a new way to go on outside running plays.
With Larry Fitzgerald, Floyd, Andre Roberts and Early Doucet, the Cardinals now have a supreme set of weapons for John Skelton and Kevin Kolb to select from.
Many of us guessed it and many of us were dead on. Let's give a big welcome to Michael Floyd, the newest wide receiver for the Arizona Cardinals!
Update: Cardinals Head Coach Ken Whisenhunt noted that they had assessed that Michael Floyd had "matured" since his past alcohol related issues.
GM Rod Graves said that the team did have offers to trade down, but that Floyd was the, "best player on our board at that time." He also mentioned that Floyd was, "too good to pass up."