2018 NFL Mock Draft: Impact of recent trades and signings

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 01: Notre Dame offensive lineman Quenton Nelson speaks to the media during NFL Combine press conferences at the Indiana Convention Center on March 1, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 01: Notre Dame offensive lineman Quenton Nelson speaks to the media during NFL Combine press conferences at the Indiana Convention Center on March 1, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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32. . Quarterback. Louisville Cardinals. Lamar Jackson. 15. player

The Arizona Cardinals looked the part of an organization that would be willing to gamble on a quarterback. After Arizona handed a one-year deal worth $20 million to Sam Bradford, however, it appears as though the organization is willing to be slightly more patient.

Or not.

It’s a rather obvious money grab on Bradford’s behalf, which implies that Arizona told him what’s likely to transpire: The selection of a quarterback in Round 1.

Some might question if Lamar Jackson is worth selecting this high, but he’s a dynamic talent who would benefit from spending a year behind an NFL-caliber starter. The pressure would be significantly lighter on Jackson in that scenario, as he’d be able to learn the game without the burden of having to win.

Jackson would also benefit from being able to play behind the quarterback who would be tasked with overcoming what truly is an awful offensive line.

Some might question why Arizona would make this selection if Jackson could be available in Round 2. The odds of him falling to the Cardinals in the second round are slim, however, as general managers tend to be willing to gamble once the back end of the first round arrives.

This is a bit of a reach for a player who needs as much polish as Jackson, but he has a big arm, explosive athleticism, and the long-term potential that Arizona is equipped to see through.