Almost all Cardinals’ top skill players set to be free agents
The Arizona Cardinals had a very good 2021 season, even if the ending was not what was hoped after a fast start. They want to build on that success in 2022, but to do that, they have a major obstacle in free agency.
Almost all their key skill players are not under contract in 2022.
These are the offensive starters set to be free agents when the new league year begins in March.
RB James Conner
WR A.J. Green
TE Zach Ertz
That is their two best running backs, two of their three starting receivers and their two best tight ends.
How much offense do they account for?
1,359 rushing yards and 17 rushing touchdowns
283 receptions for 3,283 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns
These six players accounted for 65% of their rushing yards, 71% of their passing offense and 64% of their offensive touchdowns.
They have a young receiver in Rondale Moore who can step into one of the roles, but they do not have running backs or tight ends who can be considered even near starting-caliber right now.
Whether it is bringing some or all of them back or replacing them with players at least equal in skill, this is going to be a hugely important offseason and might require head coach Kliff Kingsbury’s best offensive coaching to date.
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