PHX Reporter

It wasn't long ago that defensive lineman L.J. Collier was selected as a first-round pick in a draft class featuring several talented college quarterbacks, including Kyler Murray.

Having played against the top two picks earlier this season and preparing for Drake Maye, the third overall pick, Collier anticipates the challenge ahead. "I grew up in the era of college when Kyler was there, so it's been there and guys are going to keep getting faster and stronger," Collier stated. He emphasized the importance of keeping such athletic quarterbacks contained within the pocket.

The Arizona Cardinals have faced Caleb Williams in Week 9 and Jayden Daniels in Week 4, making them one of only two teams, along with the Tennessee Titans, to face the top three picks from the 2024 draft. The Cardinals could have faced J.J. McCarthy had he been healthy during their game against Minnesota.

Each quarterback presents unique challenges. Daniels displayed his mobility and deep-throwing ability against the Cardinals while Williams struggled against their defense when they hosted the Bears, suffering six sacks.

Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon commented on Maye's performance: "(Maye) is playing faster now," he said. "He's got a big arm and... can beat you with his legs getting out of the pocket to throw it or run it."

Maye has impressed players like Budda Baker with his rushing average of 9.1 yards per carry this season—the highest since 2000 by any quarterback. "It's crazy because when you think of Michael Vick... he's doing that on film," Baker noted.

This weekend, the Cardinals aim to exploit weaknesses in the Patriots' offensive line as Maye has been sacked 11 times over their last three games. Since their Week 11 bye week, Arizona has recorded ten sacks themselves.

However, they struggled to generate pressure last weekend against Seattle despite understanding what was at stake. Collier acknowledged missed opportunities but expressed motivation to improve as they face off against New England's struggling team on Sunday.

"We definitely want to get it fixed up," Collier remarked regarding their playoff aspirations despite skepticism about winning out remaining games: "We still have a chance at playoffs... We've won four straight (already), why can't we go on another four-win run?"