As the Arizona Cardinals prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, every decision they make will play a critical role in shaping their future. With a roster in need of upgrades across multiple positions, the team can’t afford to miss on high-value picks. While it’s essential to target players who fit their scheme and needs, it’s just as crucial to avoid prospects who come with significant risks or don’t align with the team’s vision. Here are five players the Cardinals should steer clear of in the upcoming draft.
1. [Player Name, Position] – The Overhyped Prospect
Why the Cardinals Should Avoid
This player has been a darling of pre-draft hype, but a closer look reveals concerning issues. While their college production may appear impressive, it’s often inflated by playing in a system that doesn’t translate well to the NFL. The Cardinals, who need reliable and consistent contributors, can’t afford to gamble on a player whose success hinges on a scheme-dependent skill set.
Example Red Flags:
- Lack of versatility: Limited ability to adapt to different schemes.
- Inconsistent competition: Dominated against weaker opponents but struggled in big games.
- Combine warriors: Great measurable stats but underwhelming game film.
Better Options for Arizona
The Cardinals should prioritize players who demonstrate adaptability, a proven track record against elite competition, and translatable skills for the NFL.
2. [Player Name, Position] – The Injury-Prone Star
Why the Cardinals Should Avoid
This player boasts undeniable talent, but a lengthy injury history raises red flags about their durability. The Cardinals already face challenges with key players like Kyler Murray returning from injury, and they can’t afford to invest in a prospect who might spend more time in the trainer’s room than on the field.
Example Red Flags:
- Multiple surgeries or chronic injuries during college.
- Inability to finish a full season.
- Medical reports that highlight long-term risks.
Better Options for Arizona
The Cardinals need durable prospects with a clean bill of health, particularly at positions where depth is already a concern.
3. [Player Name, Position] – The “Boom-or-Bust” Talent
Why the Cardinals Should Avoid
This prospect has eye-popping athleticism and highlights but lacks consistency. They may have an impressive ceiling, but their floor is equally concerning. For a team in a rebuild, gambling on high-risk, high-reward players can be costly. Arizona needs dependable contributors who can grow into long-term solutions, not players who might flame out early.
Example Red Flags:
- Raw technique: Relies on athleticism over polished skills.
- Lack of production: Fewer big plays in college despite physical gifts.
- Questionable football IQ: Struggles with reading the game or adapting mid-play.
Better Options for Arizona
Players with a balance of athleticism and polish who can make an immediate impact without requiring extensive development.
4. [Player Name, Position] – The “Off-Field Concerns” Prospect
Why the Cardinals Should Avoid
Character issues can derail even the most talented players. Whether it’s legal troubles, a history of clashing with coaches, or a lack of commitment to the game, these issues often lead to unfulfilled potential. For the Cardinals, who are rebuilding their culture under new leadership, adding players with questionable character could disrupt team chemistry.
Example Red Flags:
- Legal troubles or arrests during college.
- Reports of poor work ethic or effort in practice.
- Negative feedback from former coaches or teammates.
Better Options for Arizona
The Cardinals should prioritize players with strong leadership qualities, a commitment to improvement, and a history of being team-oriented.
5. [Player Name, Position] – The “Wrong Fit for the System” Player
Why the Cardinals Should Avoid
Even talented players can fail if they don’t fit the team’s system. Drafting a prospect who doesn’t align with the Cardinals’ offensive or defensive schemes would be a waste of valuable resources. Arizona must focus on players whose skills complement their coaching staff’s vision.
Example Red Flags:
- A pass-rusher who struggles in a 3-4 defense.
- A wide receiver who thrives only in a run-heavy offense.
- A cornerback with great man-coverage skills but poor zone instincts.
Better Options for Arizona
Prospects who align with the Cardinals’ scheme and have the versatility to adapt as the system evolves.
Why Avoiding the Wrong Players Matters
Drafting mistakes can have a long-lasting impact, especially for a team like the Cardinals that needs to maximize every pick. Selecting the wrong players can lead to:
- Wasted cap space on underperforming rookies.
- Missed opportunities to address critical needs.
- Prolonged rebuilding efforts due to roster inefficiencies.
By avoiding risky or ill-fitting prospects, the Cardinals can set themselves up for a more successful draft and accelerate their return to competitiveness.
Final Thoughts
The Arizona Cardinals’ approach to the 2025 NFL Draft must be one of calculated precision. Avoiding these five types of players—overhyped prospects, injury-prone stars, boom-or-bust talents, off-field risks, and system mismatches—will help ensure they build a roster capable of competing in the NFC West. With the right decisions, the Cardinals can take a significant step forward in their journey to becoming a perennial playoff contender.