3 positions Cards could address this summer
Scouting in the NFL involves far more than evaluating college prospects for the draft in April and accurately assessing players available when free agency starts in March.
It also includes knowing the potential weaknesses on your roster when training camp opens in July and developing a plan to address them, if needed.
Under General Manager Steve Keim, the Cardinals have had success in doing that over the last four years.
In 2013, they added pass rusher John Abraham and tackle Eric Winston near the start of camp.
In 2014, defensive tackle Tommy Kelly was signed in August to help compensate for the loss of Darnell Dockett to a knee injury.
In 2015, tight end Jermaine Gresham signed in July and running back Chris Johnson in August. And on Sept. 2 of last year, Keim traded a draft pick to the Chiefs for cornerback Marcus Cooper.
All the above played significant roles in the seasons in which they were acquired.
With the first practice of training camp scheduled for Saturday, let’s look at three areas the Cardinals could look to bolster before the start of the regular season.
Tight end
Coach Bruce Arians likes the talent level at this position. But durability,
not ability, is the issue here.
Gresham is the only proven commodity. Troy Niklas, a second-round pick in 2014, has had six surgical procedures in three years and played a full season just once.
Gary Barnidge, formerly of the Browns, is probably the most notable unemployed tight end. Former Cardinal Jim Dray also is available.
Cornerback
Arians and Keim are more comfortable with the current situation than fans apparently are.
Justin Bethel is healthy again, and Brandon Williams is a year older. They are the leading contenders to start opposite Patrick Peterson. Jumal Rolle is the only other cornerback with any experience.
The Cardinals will show some patience at this spot, hoping Bethel and/ or Williams play well this summer.
If they don’t, or in the event of injury, Keim will need to bring in help.
There are some notable names among available free agents, including Alterraun Verner and Brandon Flowers. And, no, don’t expect Darrelle Revis to become a Cardinal. He’s 32 and didn’t play well last year for the Jets.
Running back
Kerwynn Williams improved as a pass blocker and special teams player a year ago. That stopped his yo-yoing between the roster and unemployment.
Arians seems comfortable with Williams as the backup to David Johnson. Andre Ellington is back at running back after spending part of the offseason at receiver. Rookie T.J. Ford and Elijhaa Penny should contend for roles.
It’s a critical summer for Ellington, and the Cardinals likely will want to get a long look at the youngsters before deciding if they need outside help.
If they go that route, re-signing Johnson makes a lot of sense.