Unlocking Success: A Comprehensive Guide to Cardinals Fantasy Football
Hello, fellow fantasy football enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the world of Cardinals fantasy football. If you're a fan of the Arizona Cardinals or just looking to bolster your fantasy squad with some red-hot desert talent, you've come to the right place. We're going to break down everything you need to know about the Cardinals' fantasy football prospects, from the must-draft players to the sneaky sleepers you shouldn't overlook. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and cardinals fantasy football.
The Quarterback Dilemma: Kyler Murray & Co.
Let's kick things off with the most important position on the field: quarterback. The Cardinals have a dynamic playmaker under center in Kyler Murray. The 2019 first overall pick has been nothing short of electrifying, showcasing his dual-threat ability and leading the team to a 10-5 record in his second season. Murray finished as the QB5 in fantasy last year, thanks to his impressive rushing stats (819 yards, 11 TDs). However, he's not without his flaws, as he's struggled with accuracy and turnover issues at times. If you're looking for a high-upside QB1, Murray is your man, but be prepared for some boom-or-bust weeks.
Behind Murray, the Cardinals have Colt McCoy and Chris Streveler as backup options. Neither is worth drafting in fantasy, but McCoy could have some streaming value if Murray goes down.
Running Backs: Chase Edmonds & Co.
Now let's talk about the Cardinals' backfield, which has been a bit of a rollercoaster in recent years. Chase Edmonds is the name to know here, as he's been a revelation when given the opportunity. Edmonds finished as an RB1 in fantasy when he started five games in 2020, thanks to his impressive receiving skills (40 receptions, 306 yards, 3 TDs). However, injuries have been a concern, as he's yet to play a full 16-game season. If Edmonds can stay healthy, he's a steal as an RB2 with RB1 upside.
The Cardinals also drafted Elijah Holtz in the seventh round this year, but he's more of a blocking specialist and isn't expected to make a significant fantasy impact.
Wide Receivers: DeAndre Hopkins & Beyond
The Cardinals' receiving corps is led by one of the best wideouts in the game: DeAndre Hopkins. The three-time All-Pro has been a fantasy stalwart, finishing as a WR1 in each of the past six seasons. Despite joining a new team in 2020, Hopkins continued his dominance, catching 115 passes for 1,407 yards and 6 TDs. He's a no-brainer WR1 and should be drafted in the top five at his position.
Behind Hopkins, the Cardinals have a talented group of receivers, led by A.J. Green. The former Bengals star had a disappointing 2020 campaign, but he's still got plenty of talent and could be a sneaky WR3 or flex option in fantasy. KeeSean Johnson and Andy Isabella are also in the mix, but they're more likely to be depth pieces than fantasy stars.
Tight Ends: Maxx Williams & Co.
The tight end position has been a wasteland for the Cardinals in recent years, but they may have finally found a solution in Maxx Williams. The veteran tight end had a career year in 2020, catching 31 passes for 366 yards and 3 TDs. While those numbers aren't eye-popping, they're still solid for a TE2, and Williams is worth drafting in deeper leagues.
Behind Williams, the Cardinals have Darrell Daniels and Ross Dwelley as backup options, but neither is worth drafting in fantasy.
Defense & Kicker: Sleeper Alert!
The Cardinals' defense has been a bit of a mixed bag in recent years, but they showed promise in 2020, finishing as a top-10 fantasy unit. With a talented group of pass rushers, led by Chandler Jones, and a solid secondary, the Cardinals have the potential to be a fantasy force in 2021. They're worth drafting as a low-end starter or high-end streamer.
At kicker, the Cardinals have Zane Gonzalez, who has been a top-10 fantasy kicker in each of the past two seasons. He's a solid option at the position and is worth drafting as a low-end starter.
Sleepers & Breakouts to Target
If you're looking for some sleeper picks to help you win your league, keep an eye on these Cardinals:
James Conner: The former Steelers running back signed with the Cardinals this offseason and could be in line for a significant role in the offense. If Edmonds goes down, Conner could be a sneaky RB2. Rondale Moore: The Cardinals' second-round pick is an electric playmaker with the potential to make an immediate impact. He's worth drafting as a WR4 or flex option with WR2 upside. * Isaiah Simmons: The second-year linebacker had a disappointing rookie season, but he's got the talent to be a fantasy force. He's worth drafting as a low-end starter or high-end streamer at linebacker.
Final Thoughts
The Arizona Cardinals have a wealth of fantasy talent, from the dynamic Kyler Murray to the elite DeAndre Hopkins. If you're looking to build a championship squad, you need to pay attention to what's happening in the desert. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and draft some Cardinals!
Until next time, fantasy fans. Good luck, and happy drafting!