Peter King: Cardinals May Prioritize Future Quarterback Need

While there are still a few chapters left in Carson Palmer’s NFL playing career the Arizona Cardinals are well aware the sand is quickly dropping through the hourglass.

Last week in Indianapolis the Cards’ front office re-affirmed their faith in Palmer but who is CP3’s heir apparent is a big question which likely needs to be addressed sooner rather than later.

One well-respected NFL insider believes the Bird Gang may not wait long when late April’s draft approaches.

“I think if there’s a quarterback they love in the first round I will not at all be surprised to see them take them,” SI.com Senior NFL Writer Peter King told Sports360AZ.com’s Brad Cesmat.

Two names who could potentially fall to the end of the first round are Michigan State’s Connor Cook and Paxton Lynch from Memphis. Many project Lynch to be off the board by the time the Cards’ go on the clock but every draft is filled with players who slide further than expected.

“If Paxton Lynch or Connor Cook are sitting there where they pick way down there [in the first round],” King said. “I tell you–if I were them I’d be working both of those guys out very hard…I’d be looking at all these three-through-seven quarterbacks. If you have a conviction on one, take them.”

King applauded the Cards’ staff for finding “down-the-line prospects”  in young risers like wide receiver John Brown, defensive tackle Rodney Gunter and others. No position may be more crucial in being pro-active than finding Palmer’s future replacement.

Ohio State’s strong-armed Cardale Jones is another player the Cardinals could have their eye on.

Arizona is presently drafting 29th overall.