Jonathan Cooper: How Will Cardinals Newest OG Fare in the Pros?

Jonathan Cooper became the first offensive guard drafted in the 2013 NFL draft when the Arizona Cardinals took him with the No. 7 overall pick. 

Pro Outlook

There isn't much to not like about Cooper's overall game. He started all four years for the North Carolina Tar Heels, so he enters the NFL with loads of experience.

He also has great strength and quickness to be a factor in both the run and pass game. In fact, Cooper has the overall strength and athleticism to dominate for Arizona from day one.

The best part about this pick for Arizona is that there is an extremely small chance that Cooper doesn't pan out as a dominant offensive lineman.

Fantasy Outlook

The Cardinals brought in Rashard Mendenhall in the offseason, and the selection of Cooper only boosts his fantasy football stock. Cooper excels at creating running lanes for running backs. 

Look for Mendenhall to have a bounce-back season with Cooper leading the way.

Roster Outlook

Cooper is likely going to start at left guard for Arizona from day one. The Cardinals had one of the weakest offensive lines in 2012, so it's unlikely that Cooper will spend any time on the bench during the 2013 season.

Pick Analysis

It's been a while since an offensive guard has been drafted this high, which is really the only negative thing to say about this pick.

Cooper is going to be a perennial Pro Bowl guard for Arizona, and he definitely fills a huge need for the Cardinals' offense.

Grade: A