Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals as a whole missed the playoffs after visiting the postseason both in 2014 and 2015. But, the team’s defense still finished at No. 2 last year, holding its opposition to a mere 305.2 yards per game.
Outside linebackers Markus Golden and Chandler Jones combined for 23.5 sacks. Jones was an excellent trade acquisition from New England in 2016, and Golden flourished in his second season. Both should continue to thrive this year.
In the secondary, six-time Pro Bowler Patrick Peterson is joined by uber-talented defensive back Tyrann Mathieu.
BA said S Tyrann Mathieu surgically repaired knee is 96%, and his shoulder is back to 100%.
— Mike Jurecki (@mikejurecki) January 31, 2017
The Cards also welcome first-round linebacker Haason Reddick out of Temple and Washingtonsafety Budda Baker, who was one of the biggest surprises in Day 2 as the Cardinals traded up to select him in Round 2.
Loaded with talent on all fronts, Arizona’s defense remains one to fear looking ahead.