Cardinals DL Zach Allen Ranked as Top Ten Free Agent
The Arizona Cardinals didn't utilize the franchise tag on any of their 30 pending free agents ahead of next week, a sign that the Cardinals are willing to let market value dictate price tags for certain players such as Zach Allen and Byron Murphy.
The hope is Arizona is able to retain either of their two top targets, though discourse over which player the Cardinals should prioritize bounces back and forth.
In their list of ranking the top 50 free agents, Bleacher Report placed Allen at No. 8 with the following explanation:
8. Zach Allen
"Arizona Cardinals defensive end Zach Allen had a wonderful 2022 campaign that should set him up nicely in his pursuit of a second contract. Although he logged only 5.5 sacks, he had a career-high 25 quarterback pressures," said Kristopher Knox.
"Teams viewing Allen as a pass-rusher will likely view the 25-year-old as an up-and-comer—in a manner similar to how Trey Hendrickson was perceived in 2021 free agency. Hendrickson was more productive in his contract year (13 sacks), but he also played in a much better defense.
"While there's a lot to like about Allen as an edge-rusher, he's just as impressive against the run. On film, he rarely appears out of position, and he's a strong tackler with great angle instincts.
"This past season, Allen logged 47 tackles and 10 tackles for loss in 13 games. He was credited with only two missed tackles across 660 defensive snaps. Even for teams with established pass-rushers, Allen would be a fine addition."
Murphy also cracked the list, though he fell down a bit to No. 32:
32. CB Byron Murphy
"Arizona Cardinals cornerback Byron Murphy did not have a great year in 2022. He missed eight games with a back injury and was inconsistent in pass coverage, finishing without an interception and with a 103.1 opposing passer rating allowed.
"However, Murphy will draw significant interest because he plays a premium position, is only 25 years old and has some playmaking ability. Murphy logged four interceptions and allowed an opposing passer rating of only 87.6 in 2021. He also had two fumble recoveries in 2022, one of which he returned for game-winning touchdown in Week 2 against the Las Vegas Raiders."
Former Cardinals CB Patrick Peterson cracked the list at No. 39.
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