PHX Reporter

Since the NFL-AFL merger in 1970, the Arizona Cardinals have had success with the 16th pick in the draft. The team has made this selection three times, yielding positive results.

In 2021, they chose linebacker Zaven Collins, who recently signed a contract extension. In 2008, cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie was selected; he played in a Super Bowl and made a Pro Bowl before being traded for quarterback Kevin Kolb. In 1982, they picked multi-time Pro Bowl tackle Luis Sharpe.

General Manager Monti Ossenfort's decision for the 2025 draft at pick number 16 remains unknown. However, he acknowledges that selecting at this position involves more complexity compared to his previous drafts where the Cardinals had higher picks.

"Huge difference, and I hope we continue to slide further back in the draft," Ossenfort stated. "Picking 3, picking 4, we could narrow down who was going to be sitting there for us. It's a little harder at 16."

The teams drafting ahead of the Cardinals are the Dolphins, Colts, and Falcons. NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah described this year's first round as "odd," noting fewer players projected to become Pro Bowlers compared to last year.

"This isn't a year where you want to be picking 8, 9, 10, but I think 16 is just back far enough there is some value there," Jeremiah commented.

The Cardinals are not seeking a quarterback this year. The draft lacks depth at QB compared to last year when many non-QB talents were pushed down due to high QB selections. Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders are expected top-10 picks but may be the only quarterbacks chosen before Arizona's turn.

Despite this challenge, there are ample choices along both offensive and defensive lines—areas of interest for the Cardinals' development strategy.

"It's an interesting place to pick," said Dane Brugler from The Athletic. "Knowing this front office, they will be buttoned up and ready to go."

There is also speculation about potential trades by Ossenfort during the draft process. In past drafts under his management, strategic moves have been made including trading positions within rounds.

"Whoever he says let's do our homework on then we'll do the homework on," coach Jonathan Gannon remarked regarding their preparation strategy. "And we don't know how it's going to go... if we are picking 16 right now that doesn't mean that's where we're going to be picking."