DW '09 Season Preview: Arizona Cardinals

Last Year: 9-7

Key Additions: CB Bryant McFadden, RB Chris Wells

Offense: The Cardinals boast the best wide receiving core ( 3, 1000 yard receivers) in the NFC and an accurate QB to get them the ball. Beanie Wells will take departed Edgerinn James carries and split time with Tim Hightower. Word is that Matt Leinart is fighting to keep his job as backup QB. An adequate enough O-line should give Warner enough time to complete passes from the shot-gun formation. The O-line did not miss a start due to injury last year, how will they react if/when that does not happen this year?


Defense: The Arizona defense should rival last years unit which was one of the worst in the league. Newcomer Bryant McFadden will replace former Eagle Rod Hood at one corner spot but it remains to be seen, if he is an upgrade. Darnell Dockett and Bertrand Berry will provide the pass rush and Adrian Wilson remains as one of the top safeties in the game. Last year the Cardinals allowed 35 or more points, 5 times! If the defense improves, the Cards could sneak into the playoffs.

Fantasy Studs: I am not sold on this being a playoff team again but am sold on this team being fantasy gold. Larry Fitzgerald: 96 rec, 1431 yds, 12 tds. Two straight 1400 yards season will double digit tds, Fitzgerald as is much of a sure thing as there is in fantasy. Anquan Boldin: 89 rec, 1038 yds, 11 tds. A legitimate fantasy #1 receiver who just happens to be the Cards #2. Only downside is he only managed to play in 12 games in each of the last two seasons. Keep an eye on his behavior during camp as he is unhappy with his contract. Kurt Warner: 4583 yds, 30 TDs 14 Ints. The beneficiary of the skill position talent, Warner may have one of the best jobs in football, as it is difficult to incomplete passes in this offense.

Prediction: 8-8. Super Bowl hangover. This team should get to 8 wins due to a cupcake division but will find it tough to be as fortunate as they were last year.