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It's official. The Arizona Cardinals made a trade for a Top-50 NFL player in the offseason. NFL Network continues its yearly countdown of the top 100 players in the league, as supposedly voted by players. Chandler Jones, the pass rusher Arizona traded for, appears for the first time on the list and comes in at No. 48.
He is coming off a season in which he collected 12.5 sacks, fifth best in the league.
Several players had some good things to say. Of course, his family is brought up. His two older brothers are MMA star Jon "Bones" Jones and defensive tackle Arthur Jones.
Colts punter Pat McAfee said this:
"You're talking about three brothers who are world champions and now he has a chip on his shoulder because he was traded to a new team and has to reprove himself? The guys is just going to be a monster this year and tear things up."
Packer defensive tackle Mike Daniels said Jones "has no choice than to be tough," based on his background.
Texans cornerback Charles James talked about his impact on defense. "He's quick around the edge," he said, "You have to account for him every time, because if you don't, he'll kill you."
Redskins left tackle Trent Williams called him "probably the most improved player this year. "I think he's going to terrorize the league for a long time." Of course, Williams witnessed Jones beat him and get to Kirk Cousins. Jones even warned Cousins he was coming.
Colts tight end Coby Fleener called Jones "the total package," being able to rush the passer, stop the run and play in space.
It is what the Cardinals are hoping for him.
It isn't every year you can trade for a top 50 player. The Cards managed to do just that.
Jones is the second Cardinal in the Top 100. Calais Campbell came in at 71. Who is left? Patrick Peterson, Tyrann Mathieu and Larry Fitzgerald are locks, based on previous years, and you have to think Carson Palmer will be on that list based on his play in Arizona, and especially after last season.