Heading into the 2023 NFL Draft, the Arizona Cardinals have a unique opportunity to bolster their roster with 11 draft picks, including six within the top 90. This pivotal moment in their rebuilding project comes after a challenging 4-13 season. General Manager Monti Ossenfort, who joined the Cardinals in January 2023, has been meticulously preparing for this draft, recognizing the need to upgrade the team’s overall talent and competitiveness.
The Cardinals possess two first-round picks, the No. 4 and No. 27 selections. Speculation surrounds their potential acquisition of elite wideouts such as Marvin Harrison Jr., Malik Nabers, and Rome Odunze. However, Ossenfort has remained tight-lipped about the team’s draft strategy, leaving open the possibility of trading down.
Despite the Cardinals’ need for wide receivers, they also require depth in other positions. Cornerbacks and depth on both offensive and defensive lines are areas where they could potentially enhance their roster. Conversely, the quarterback position appears secure with Kyler Murray, who signed a lucrative contract before the 2022 season, under center. They have also added backup Desmond Ridder, who started for the Atlanta Falcons last year.
Ossenfort’s first draft in 2023 yielded promising results. Top pick Paris Johnson Jr. became a regular starter at right tackle and may transition to left tackle in the future. Other notable contributors from that draft class include linebacker BJ Ojulari, cornerback Garrett Williams, and rookie receiver Michael Wilson.
Both Ossenfort and second-year head coach Jonathan Gannon have expressed their willingness to consider the opinions of current players when evaluating draft prospects. This approach has led to some playful banter among the team’s stars, with safety Budda Baker advocating for former Washington teammate Rome Odunze and offensive lineman D.J. Humphries backing Ohio State product Marvin Harrison Jr.
