2012 Team Review: Arizona Cardinals

What Went Right: Defense

        While their rushing defense rated low, that had more to do with how often they were on the field than with their talent. The defense dominated the early parts of most games, but as the offense continued to stumble and fail, the defense became exhausted and starting letting big plays go. Linebacker Daryl Washington broke out as an interior linebacker, recording nine sacks and proving to be an athletic thumper in the middle of the Cardinals defense. Calais Campbell is the second best 3-4 defensive end, stuck behind an absolute beast in J.J. Watt and he played like it this year. He was as disruptive as any play in his position not named J.J. Watt. Patrick Peterson began gambling a bit more and came up with seven interceptions even though everyone knew he was the best corner they had on the field. Three other players racked up about

four sacks a piece and Kerry Rhodes had a solid year in coverage. Taking all these factors together, the Cardinals have a Super Bowl ready defense.

What Went Wrong: Offense

        As good as the defense was, the offense was just as bad. In spite of Larry Fitzgerald’s presence and a relatively good year from Andre Roberts and the addition of Michael Floyd, the Cardinals simply couldn’t put any consistent offense together. Four different quarterbacks started during the season and combine for few results, Kevin Kolb being the only one to show any promise going forward. No running back surpassed 400 yards rushing and the offensive line was a shambles all year. They gave up 58 sacks this past year and the pressure also cause the quarterbacks to throw 21 interceptions this past year. They need help pretty much all over the offense.

Player of the Year: Daryl Washington

        This is kind of tough to call, but not that tough. Peterson was a bit up and down this year and Campbell had just another solid season. Washington on the other hand, broke out from obscurity and became one of the most respected players at his position. A lot of that came because he became a great passing rushing option from the interior linebacker position, as well as his solid play in coverage and in the run game. He’s the foundation of this defense and will be important to build around going forward.

Keeper: Rashad Johnson

        This was really tied between Johnson, LaRod Stephens-Howling and Greg Toler. The reason I went with Johnson is that the Cardinals have three safeties that are free agents this offseason. While none are starters, it would be hard to lose three experienced safeties with both of the safeties being older. I’d say they could easily re-sign him to a fair sized contract and a not have to worry as much about the depth in the defensive backfield.

Goner: Kevin Kolb

        This is more a decision about money than it is the quality of play this year. Kolb showed that he could be a solid starter in his limited play, but with the injury concerns and the new coach coming in, Kolb might be relegated to backup. Additionally, his cap hit jumps by 10 million to 14.9 million next year. Even if they want to give him another chance, they’ve got to bring that number down. It’s just way too high. I think they might re-negotiate his contract, but if not, I think he’s gone.

Should Draft: Offensive Line

        For all the problems the offense has with quarterback and on offense in general, all of it traces back to the offensive line. While the guard and center positions are pretty good, both tackle spots were in constant flux this year and atrocious in pass protection. A new left tackle and flopping Levi Brown back to right tackle is in order if this team wants to go anywhere in the near future.