Cardinals Defense Ranked One of Worst in NFL
The Arizona Cardinals welcomed the defensive mind of Jonathan Gannon as their next head coach back in the early days of the offseason. Gannon, fresh a Super Bowl appearance leading the defense of the NFC champion Philadelphia Eagles, brought a vastly different approach than previous leader Kliff Kingsbury in nearly every facet.
There's hope Gannon and new defensive coordinator Nick Rallis can make good on their previous experience and help overhaul a Cardinals defense that desperately needs it moving forward.
Arizona began a massive (and much needed) overhaul of the roster, which unfortunately involved losing several starters in the process.
Heading into 2023, the Cardinals are expected to have one of the worst units in the league. When it comes to the defensive side of the ball, Bleacher Report has them as the third-worst unit in the league:
"The main concern with the Arizona Cardinals resides up front," wrote David Kenyon.
"J.J. Watt amassed 12.5 sacks last season but has since retired. Zach Allen, who posted 5.5 sacks and 25 pressures, left in free agency. Markus Golden took a step back from his 11-sack 2021, yet he still tallied 2.5 sacks and 22 pressures in 2022 before being getting released.
"In short, the Cardinals need to find a whole lot of production from an overhauled pass-rushing corps.
"Not only did the defense finish a modest 23rd in yards allowed per carry last season, Arizona is practically running it back up front. This could be a bottom-tier group against both the run and pass—especially if star safety Budda Baker sticks to his trade request.
"Baker requested to leave the Cards earlier in the offseason. Although present for the team's mandatory June minicamp, he did not participate. If he's dealt, the secondary will have a massive void.
"New coach Jonathan Gannon has a terrific defensive mind, but he's working from a deficit in Year 1."
Plenty of talent was lost, though Kenyon didn't mention Arizona also lost valuable corner Byron Murphy in free agency as well.
As far as Budda Baker goes - he's not going anywhere. Baker's financial situation will require attention, but it's clear he's not leaving Arizona.
Even with Baker on the roster, things will be tough for the Cardinals in 2023.
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