Arizona Cardinals: Grading Day 2 picks in 2019 NFL Draft
The Arizona Cardinals biggest move on Day 2 of the 2019 NFL Draft was trading Josh Rosen, but how did they do with their selections?
After taking Kyler Murray No. 1 overall in the 2019 NFL Draft, Arizona Cardinals general manager Steve Keim needed to add pieces for his new franchise quarterback. Keim opted to build on the defensive side of the ball on Day 2 by taking a corner and defensive lineman with his own picks.
However, thanks to a trade with the Miami Dolphins to send Josh Rosen (their 2018 first-rounder) packing, he was also able to add some speed at wide receiver. So, who were the players Keim added to ensure the success of his rookie head coach and newly acquired quarterback?
Let’s take a look and grade each pick for Arizona.
Byron Murphy, CB, Washington
There were rumors that arguably the league’s best corner, Patrick Peterson, was up for grabs. Hopefully for Cardinals fans, that’s not the case. If not, Byron Murphy will be an excellent plug and play option across from Peterson.
On some boards, Murphy was considered the top corner prospect. He’s smooth in transition, technically sound who can play in man press coverage. There’s not a ton of upside but he can become one those underrated elite coroners There’s no corner in the entire draft that mirrors better than Murphy. Nor can anyone surpass his ability to react and anticipate. He’s does a great job clicking and closing and reading receivers.
The Cardinals really needed to add some weapons for Murray or some protection. Murphy is a solid pick but they missed out on offensive linemen.
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Grade: B+
Andy Isabella, WR, UMass
Keim was finally able to rid himself of Josh Rosen, traded the 10th overall pick in 2018 to the Dolphins for the No. 62 pick and a 2020 fifth-rounder. He then used the 62nd pick on UMass receiver Andy Isabella.
Isabella (5-10 ,195 pounds) is a natural slot with excellent short-area quickness and reliable hands. He’s a savvy route runner with day one starter potential. At the combine, Isabella clocked an impressive 4.31-second 40 which likely catapulted him into the second round.
Nevertheless, rookie head coach Kliff Kingsbury‘s offensive philosophy requires players that can space out the field. Larry Fitzgerald played a lot in the slot, so it’ll be interesting to see where Isabella fits in as a rookie.
Still, with his speed, route running ability and hands, Isabella makes for a solid pick. Kyler Murray understands how to play with receivers with Isabella’s skill-set thanks to time spent with Marquise Brown.
Grade: B
Zach Allen, DL, Boston College
The 6-4, 280-pound Allen plays with power, physicality, and relentlessness. He’s great at the point of attack and adds value a run defender. When he locks out, he controls his man and has the IQ to decipher plays. While not the most elite athlete, he does have added versatility. The Cardinals can line him up on the edge or inside. He’ll likely play the 5-technique for defensive coordinator Vance Joseph.
2019 NFL Draft: Day 3 grades for every pick. dark. Next
There’s a lot to like about Allen. He’ll likely end up being a very productive player for a long time. He has enough talent to get sacks here and there. Ultimately, he’s a base end who can line up and rush from the three-technique. The Cardinals found a plug and play prospect with Allen who’ll help out in the run game. However, they needed some offensive line help or a weapon for Murray at tightend.
Grade: B–