2011 NFL Draft: How the Arizona Cardinals Stack Up with the Rest of the NFC West

Things started out great for the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL Draft.

Patrick Peterson was available at the fifth spot, and the Cardinals addressed a need on defense instead of drafting a QB that didn't fit their system...and that hasn't done anything to live up to his projections.

From there, things got a little odd.

I had projected them getting a steal of an OT in round two. However, a few other people knew that James Carpenter was a top talent, and he was off the board. Instead of filling their biggest need and drafting  Ben Ijalana or Rodney Hudson, the Cardinals surprised everyone and drafted a RB with high upside but some concerns.

There weren't many analysts that saw RB as being a need for Arizona in this draft. Most thought Hightower and Wells would man the backfield again in 2011, only this time with some help on the offensive line.

Arizona could use two offensive tackles and at least one interior blocker. The draft produced a total of zero prospects at these positions. The Cardinals will have to get busy in free agency to round out their line.

Their TE pick was decent. They didn't get an amazing talent, nor did they get him before he was expected to come off the board. But they did get one.

The Cardinals got back on track with the LB positions. Sturdivant and Acho will both fill needs, and were drafted well after their projections suggested. The LB and DB positions will be strong in 2011, but the DL is still lacking. The offense is particularly troublesome, and they are missing way too many pieces of the OL.

This is how I see the NFC Worst falling out in 2011:

Seattle Seahawks:  8-8
49ers-stack-up-in-the-nfc-west-race" target="_blank">San Francisco 49ers: 7-9 
St. Louis Rams: 7-9
Arizona Cardinals: 3-13

For a full breakdown, click here: Breakdown and standings for each team.