The Arizona Cardinals may not have made it to the postseason, but that doesn’t mean their fans have to miss out on the excitement of the NFL playoffs. With no team to cheer for, it's still worth tuning in to see the action unfold, especially when you consider that the remaining playoff teams might have a few players who could be on the Cardinals’ radar for potential offseason signings. So, as you settle in to watch the Washington Commanders and Detroit Lions go head-to-head in the Saturday night divisional game, starting at 8 p.m. ET, keep an eye on some of the key players on the Lions' roster who might be up for grabs in free agency.
Free Agent Targets from the Detroit Lions
There are some exciting potential additions to the Cardinals' roster, and it’s worth diving into a few of the Lions’ players who could fill crucial positions for Arizona. Whether it’s bolstering the defense or adding some depth, these free agents are certainly ones to watch:
1. S Ifeatu Melifonwu
While the Cardinals’ safety position might seem pretty solid, there’s always room for improvement. One potential move could involve parting ways with Jalen Thompson, especially if his salary becomes a sticking point for the team. Enter Ifeatu Melifonwu, a talented safety who hasn’t had a chance to play much this season, appearing in just three games. However, his 2023 season tells a different story, one worth paying attention to. Melifonwu put up solid numbers with three sacks, two interceptions, and eight pass breakups. With those stats in mind, it’s clear that he’s a capable player who could step in and add value to the secondary. If the Cardinals are looking for an upgrade or some new energy at the safety spot, Melifonwu could be an intriguing option.
2. LB Derrick Barnes
Although Derrick Barnes is currently sidelined on injured reserve and won’t be active during the playoffs, he still stands out as a player to watch this offseason. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 240 pounds, Barnes is a linebacker who’s built to make an impact. In the 2023 season, Barnes recorded 81 tackles, a sack, and even forced a fumble. While he might not be on the field for the playoffs, his performance earlier in the season shows he has what it takes to contribute. The Cardinals could use some help in the linebacker department, especially if they’re unsure about Kyzir White’s return. Barnes, with his strong track record, could be a good fit as a potential addition to bolster the defense and bring some more firepower to the position.
3. DL Levi Onwuzurike
Another player to keep an eye on as a potential offseason target is Levi Onwuzurike. Set to turn 27 in March, Onwuzurike has plenty of football ahead of him and could be a solid addition to the Cardinals’ defensive line. He played in all 16 games for the Lions in 2023, starting in 10 of them. His stats reflect his strong presence on the field, as he tallied 28 tackles, 13 quarterback hits, and 1.5 sacks. These numbers demonstrate that Onwuzurike is a versatile and disruptive force on the line who can help pressure opposing quarterbacks. For a Cardinals team looking to beef up their defensive front, Onwuzurike might just be the piece they need to take their pass rush to the next level.
Why These Players Matter to the Cardinals
When considering these potential targets, it’s essential to think about the areas where the Cardinals need to strengthen their roster. While their defense is solid in some areas, it could certainly benefit from an upgrade or some fresh faces. For example, the safety position could be more dynamic, and adding a player like Melifonwu could provide just that spark. Meanwhile, the linebacker corps has some question marks, particularly regarding whether Kyzir White will be back next season. Barnes’ ability to contribute immediately could be just what the Cardinals need.
Then there’s the defensive line, which is always a crucial part of any NFL defense. Adding someone like Onwuzurike would give the Cardinals a strong and disruptive force in the trenches, which would improve both their pass rush and ability to stop the run.
The Importance of Strategic Offseason Moves
As the Cardinals look to rebuild and strengthen their roster, the offseason will be key. Making strategic moves in free agency can be a game-changer, helping the team fill critical gaps and improve its overall performance. While the playoffs provide entertainment for fans of all teams, they also offer a glimpse into which players might be available come the offseason. Whether it’s through the draft or free agency, the Cardinals will need to make smart decisions to ensure they’re competitive next season.
By targeting players like Melifonwu, Barnes, and Onwuzurike, the Cardinals could bring in some key pieces to their defense, strengthening both their depth and their starting lineup. It’s all about finding players who fit the team’s needs, and these free agents could help Arizona address some of their most pressing concerns.
Watching the Playoffs: More Than Just Fun and Games
The playoffs are always an exciting time in the NFL, even if you’re not rooting for a specific team. As the remaining teams battle it out for the ultimate prize, there’s a lot to learn about potential future stars and valuable contributors. Arizona fans, while not directly involved in the postseason race, can still take advantage of this time to keep an eye on players who could soon be in Cardinal red. The Lions, in particular, have some promising free agents who might just be a perfect fit for the team’s needs.
Whether it’s for their ability to create turnovers, pressure the quarterback, or provide solid depth, players like Melifonwu, Barnes, and Onwuzurike have the potential to make a big difference for the Cardinals in the coming season. For fans of the team, watching these players in action could provide an early preview of what’s to come.
Final Thoughts: A Look Ahead
Although the Arizona Cardinals aren’t part of the postseason picture this year, that doesn’t mean they can’t still be active in the offseason, looking for ways to improve. As you tune in to the playoffs, remember that there are plenty of players out there who could be future stars for the Cardinals. The Lions, in particular, have some intriguing options that could help fill gaps in Arizona’s defense, from the secondary to the linebacker corps and the defensive line.
By keeping a close eye on these free agents, the Cardinals could make some moves that will have a lasting impact. As the team continues to build and reshape its roster, the opportunities to bring in new talent are endless. Whether it’s through free agency or the draft, there’s a lot to look forward to for Arizona fans. So, while the playoffs may be without a true rooting interest for many, for the Cardinals, it’s a chance to get a sneak peek at the players who could be helping the team make its way back to postseason glory in the near future.
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