PHX Reporter

Cardinals General Manager Monti Ossenfort held a record 12 picks during the 2024 NFL Draft, marking the highest number by an NFL team since 1992. This year, the Cardinals will have six selections, starting with the 16th pick. Arizona focused on free agency to address several needs, although Jonathan Gannon and Ossenfort maintain a draft-centric team-building strategy.

The squad's current wide receiver roster includes Marvin Harrison Jr., Michael Wilson, Greg Dortch, Zay Jones, Simi Fehoko, Quez Watkins, Andre Baccellia, Xavier Weaver, Tejhaun Palmer, and Trishton Jackson. Harrison Jr. entered the team last year with significant expectations as WR1. While he faced challenges, his 2024 performance included 62 receptions for 885 yards and eight touchdowns. Wilson's consistency across 16 games added value to the team. Despite their depth at wide receiver, acquiring a fast wide receiver might give opponents additional defensive challenges.

Travis Hunter tops the prospects as an athlete hoping to play both wide receiver and defensive back. However, the chances of Hunter being available for the Cardinals' pick are slim. There is hope that Arizona's Tetairoa McMillan or Texas' Matthew Golden could be available if many offensive and defensive linemen are selected before the Cardinals' turn. According to several mock drafts, Arizona may choose a wide receiver early, following their previous year's approach.

Considering the talent in the draft class, the Cardinals could use later selections on a wide receiver or explore the veteran market for contributions. First-round selection of a wide receiver remains uncertain.