The NFL draft is less than a week away, and General Manager Steve Keim believes there are approximately 8 to 10 blue-chip players in this year's class.
That leaves the Cardinals in good shape to get one when they are on the clock at No. 8. While the decision will come next Thursday, here's how mock draft analysts believe the pick will play out:
Jedrick Wills, Alabama offensive tackle
Chosen by: Albert Breer, Sports Illustrated; Bucky Brooks, NFL.com; Jenny Vrentas, Sports Illustrated; Pete Prisco, CBS; Daniel Jeremiah, NFL.com.
AZCardinals.com analysis: This has long been a common choice among prognosticators, as Wills is viewed as one of the best offensive linemen in the draft and would fill a longterm right tackle need for the Cardinals. Some question whether Wills can play left tackle because he didn't do it much in college, but the Cardinals re-signed D.J. Humphries to do that job for the next three seasons, so it wouldn't be a pressing need for the foreseeable future.
Tristan Wirfs, Iowa offensive tackle
Chosen by: Mel Kiper, Jr., ESPN; Michael Renner, Pro Football Focus; John Clayton, Washington Post; Todd McShay, ESPN.
AZCardinals.com analysis: While Wills is the player linked to the Cardinals the most, Wirfs is not far behind. He also has plenty of experience at right tackle and tested impressively at the NFL Scouting combine. If the Cardinals want to add an offensive line prospect with high-end potential, Wills and Wirfs would both seem to fit the bill.
Derrick Brown, Auburn defensive tackle
Chosen by: Peter Schrager, NFL.com; Dane Brugler, The Athletic.
AZCardinals.com analysis: The Cardinals added Jordan Phillips in free agency but the defensive line is still a bit thin. Brown would amend that in a hurry, as he has plenty of potential as both a run-stuffer and pass-disruptor. If the Cardinals go defense at No. 8, this would be a logical selection, as the line was subpar in 2019.
Jerry Jeudy, Alabama wide receiver
Chosen by: Will Brinson, CBSSports.com.
AZCardinals.com analysis: Despite the blockbuster trade for DeAndre Hopkins, Keim did not rule out the idea of taking a wide receiver at No. 8. Jeudy is viewed as the best route-runner in the draft, and would be yet another option in the passing game for quarterback Kyler Murray. Coach Kliff Kingsbury used four wide receivers more than anyone else in the NFL last season, and he would have a great quartet in 2020 if Jeudy is the selection.
Mekhi Becton, Louisville offensive tackle
Chosen by: Joel Klatt, FOX Sports; Cynthia Frelund, NFL.com.
AZCardinals.com analysis: Becton is a mammoth offensive tackle prospect, listed at 6-foot-7 and 364 pounds. He is known as a dominant run blocker, and if his pass protection holds up against quick-twitch NFL edge-rushers, Becton could be a great piece on the offensive line. He played both left and right tackle at Louisville, and Keim values positional flexibility.
Andrew Thomas, Georgia offensive tackle
Chosen by: Doug Farrar, USA Today; Charles Davis, NFL.com
AZCardinals.com analysis: With Thomas' name coming up, all four of the top offensive tackles in the draft are now being linked to the Cardinals at No. 8. Thomas was a decorated player in college who is viewed as a polished player that could make an immediate impact. There does not seem to be a great consensus on the order the four will come off the board, as it could come down to personal preference and scheme fit. It does seem clear that, if the Cardinals want an offensive tackle, a couple of these prospects should be available at No. 8.
