With The First Pick
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Franchise Building Blocks: Arizona Cardinals

By Jon Dove

Jan 24, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson (31) runs the ball during the first quarter against the Carolina Panthers in the NFC Championship football game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 24, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson (31) runs the ball during the first quarter against the Carolina Panthers in the NFC Championship football game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Arizona Cardinals are facing an offseason filled with tough decisions regarding the makeup of their roster.

After a disappointing season, the Arizona Cardinals need to decide if they want to make another run with their current roster or start to retool. The team’s thoughts on Carson Palmer are what will likely drive the team’s direction.

Palmer had a down year which in part was due to issues along the offensive line and injuries at the wide receiver position. He can still be an effective quarterback, but it’s questionable to think he has enough in the tank to lead this team to the Super Bowl.

Arizona’s most talented player is David Johnson who’s someone they build the offense around. His ability to make plays both as a runner and pass catcher make him one of the more dangerous offensive weapons in the NFL.

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The receiver position is in solid standing with Larry Fitzgerald likely to return and John Brown still developing. Losing Michael Floyd hurts, but the team might be better off getting away from his inconsistent play.

This does mean that they need J.J. Nelson and Jaron Brown to take on a bigger role in the offense.

The offensive line is a major concern with Jared Veldheer having another injury plagued season and D.J. Humphries failing to meet expectations. This is a group that might need to be completely rebuilt in the next few seasons.

Things on the defensive side of the ball could also get ugly in the next couple years. The key is that they find a way to sign Chandler Jones to a long-term deal. He’s an elite pass rusher who has the ability to change the course of a game.

Outside of Jones, the Cardinals have top-end defenders like Patrick Peterson and Tyrann Mathieu in the mix. Deone Bucannon is also someone who is considered a building block and someone who makes plays all over the field.

Calais Campbell’s future is uncertain as he heads into free agency. Arizona would feel better letting him walk if rookie Robert Nkemdiche showed any type of promise.

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