We are right before the NFL Combine, where former college athletes will have one more shot to show (or not show in some cases) the NFL teams that they have what it takes to contribute or even shine on Sundays as pros. Last week, ESPN draft expert Mel Kiper released his mock draft 2.0. His projections had Auburn quarterback Cam Newton on the rise, Missouri QB Blaine Gabbert sliding a little bit and the Arizona Cardinals not selecting a quarterback. SB Nation released their most recent mock draft and, while agreeing with Kiper on the player the Cardinals will select, differs in where the two highest rated quarterbacks are projected to be selected.
While Kiper had Cam Newton being selected by the Buffalo Bills at number three and Blaine Gabbert at number ten by the Washington Redskins, SB Nation's projections have the Missouri signal caller going to Buffalo to work under Ryan Fitzpatrick. SB Nation also has the Redskins losing out of the quarterback position, as Newton is projected to be selected by the Tennessee Titan with the number eight pick overall.
Agreeing with Kiper's projections, Arizona is looking on the defensive side of the ball, selecting Texas A&M linebacker Von Miller, who showed his dominance most recently in the Senior Bowl. An elite edge rusher is ia huge need for the Cardinals, and a player of this caliber (or potential caliber) could be a defensive force from day one.
I have said it before, Von Miller would be great here. He would not have to learn a new position as a defensive end would have to in the Cardinals' 3-4 defense. He can get to the quarterback and can play the run as well. He can't complete passes to Larry Fitzgerald, but he will make an impact.