Darren Urban of AzCardinals.com breaks down the Cardinals top needs as they head into the offseason.
Darnell Dockett
Urban lists defensive line as the Cardinals No. 2 area of need and specifically mentions that DE Darnell Dockett’s age and contract “will likely call into question his future after 2014.“
Dockett, 32, has two years remaining on his contract and he’ll make $5.5 million for the 2014 season. Last year, he produced 46 tackles and 4.5 sacks over the course of 16 games. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 27 defensive end in 3-4 system in 2013.
The Cardinals could free up $6.8 million if they were to release Dockett after the 2014 season, according to Overthecap.com.
Rob Housler
Urban writes that although TE Rob Housler continued to show some flashes, he is likely entering a “make-or-break season.”
Urban points to Housler’s ability to stay healthy and be consistently productive as the two areas where he’ll need to prove himself.
Housler, 25, has been mentioned as a possible break out candidate for the past two seasons. He played in 13 games and caught 39 passes for 454 yards which include his first and only NFL touchdown.
Seems fair to suggest that the team will be expecting to see a lot of improvement from him or they’ll likely be forced to look elsewhere for a long-term option.
Free Agency Notes:
- Urban has offensive line as the Cardinals No. 1 area need and believes upgrades are needed at multiple positions.
- “It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Matt Shaughnessy get away as a free agent,” writes Urban.
- Urban believes there is a chance that ILB Karlos Dansby could once again leave for a better contract.
- Urban also mentions that they could use more depth at safety and quarterback as well.
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