The NFC West is one of the toughest divisions in the NFL but some of their 2019 NFL Draft picks were tough to swallow. The worst picks for each team.
Teams are gearing up for OTAs with the hope that their 2019 NFL Draft classes will contribute in a big way. There’s arguably no division more competitive and intriguing than the NFC West as we eye the 2019 season.
The Arizona Cardinals aren’t looking to settle for an 8-8 season, especially after the moves they’ve made in the draft. The Los Angeles Rams are looking to repeat as NFC West champs and return to the Super Bowl. Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers hope that Jimmy Garoppolo can bounce back from his knee injury. Expect the new look Seahawks and the highest paid quarterback in the league to make their claim on the West.
All of these teams undoubtedly have high expectations and their rookies are will play a role at some point. However, there are some rookies who aren’t going to fit into their respective team’s plans. Unfortunately, each team made a pick that wasn’t conducive for their team’s success.
Arizona Cardinals: Andy Isabella, WR (No. 62 overall)
The Cardinals did the unthinkable and drafted a first-round quarterback in back to back years. Of course, they needed to get their new, young signal caller some weapons. So the Cardinals traded Josh Rosen for the 62nd overall pick and drafted Andy Isabella out of UMass
If you aren’t familiar with Isabella’s skill-set, he’s an ideal slot receiver. He’s quick with good hands and blazed a 4.31-second time in the 40-yard dash at the combine. He’ll make for a solid option inside once Larry Fitzgerald hangs up his cleats.
Unfortunately, he wasn’t worth the 62nd pick. What the Cardinals needed was some protection for Kyler Murray. Part of the reason for Rosen’s disappointing rookie season was the lack of help up front. General manager Steve Keim didn’t address the offensive line until the sixth round.
There were some quality linemen available for the Cardinals and they ignored them. Isabella will have a difficult time getting the ball if Murray is running for his life. Players like Michel Deiter, Bobby Evans or Connor McGovern would have been better options.