Cardinals consider options at linebacker

assume they will find a way to re-sign him. Jones, who will turn 32 in 2022, is still in his prime despite missing 11 games last season following a biceps injury.

He’s been one of the most prolific edge rushers and disruptors in the NFL, totaling 60 sacks, 78 tackles for loss, 17 forced fumbles and six fumble recoveries in his first four full seasons in Arizona. More big things are expected this year now that he’ll be joined up front with veteran J.J. Watt, the former threetime NFL Defensive Player of the Year. With extra help coming from high-energy Markus Golden, this could be a sizeable strength for the Cardinals.

Arizona likely won’t wait to see the results before offering Jones a new deal, be it for two or three years, especially with the salary cap returning to normal next season. Watt and Golden are already wrapped up through 2022, which is good, but there’s always an outside chance something could hit a snag regarding Jones’ future.

It could be another serious injury, an unexpected event or some type of organizational change that might impact what happens next. Should that be the case, the Cardinals could be on the hunt for a star outside linebacker of the future and they might decide not to wait a full year to make that decision.

It’s a total wild card situation to be sure, but just in case, let’s take a look at some of Arizona’s options in the first and second round. But before we do, keep in mind that host of this year’s top linebackers can play both inside and outside spots. It’s also important to remember that Cardinals linebackers coach Billy Davis has said that almost any defensive end worth his salt can be converted into a 3-4 outside linebacker at the pro level.

That opens a slew of potential prospects for Arizona to target. Some of them to consider at No. 16 if they’re available could be Kwity Paye of Michigan, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah of Notre Dame and Azeez Ojulari of Georgia.

Second-round options with pick No. 49 could include Joseph Ossai from Texas, Joe Tryon from Washington, Ronnie Perkins from Oklahoma and Carlos Basham Jr. from Wake Forest.

Top outside linebackers draft

1. Kwity Paye, 6-4, 272, Michigan 2. Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, 6-1, 215, Notre Dame

3. Azeez Ojulari, 6-3, 240, Georgia 4. Zaven Collins, 6-04, 260, Tulsa 5. Joseph Ossai, 6-4, 255, Texas Coming Wednesday:

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