2019 NFL Mock Draft: Defensive line rules at start of training camp
By Randy Gurzi
5. Arizona Cardinals: A.J. Brown, Ole Miss, WR
During the 2018 NFL Draft, the Arizona Cardinals made some solid moves that will make their future much more promising. They added UCLA quarterback Josh Rosen with their first round pick and then later got a wide receiver to work with Larry Fitzgerald as they contemplate life without their franchise leader in every major statistical area.
That was Texas A&M’s Christian Kirk, but he’s not your prototypical No. 1 wideout. Kirk is a guy who excels in the slot and will be a monster in the return game for the Cards. He’s the kind of player you need on offense, but if they want their next outside star then A.J. Brown makes sense here.
As a sophomore with Ole Miss, Brown broke out and had 75 receptions for 1,252 yards. He also recorded 11 touchdowns for the Rebels. Listed at 6-1 and 225 pounds, Brown is a well-built receiver who can win with his physical play. He won’t beat people downfield with his speed, but he’s a precise route runner and gets into position rather quickly.
With Rosen on their roster, Arizona believes they have the future of their franchise. Now they just have to keep adding weapons for him to be able to succeed. Brown can surely help in that regard.