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With the NFL Draft now in the rearview mirror we take the Arizona Cardinals "Off The Clock" with pick-by-pick analysis, the Bible's take and our grade.
 (1-31) Chris “Beanie” Wells, RB (Ohio State): It was well documented leading up the draft that the Cardinals were in the market for another running back. Now that the Cardinals have officially cut ties with Edgerrin James, Wells is the man in the desert. Can he live up to the hype and fill the shoes of the man who is 11th all-time on the rushing list? He has the best size/speed combo of any running back in the Draft, but many question his toughness and durability.
(2-63) Cody Brown, OLB (UConn): Brown is an exciting athlete who can make plays off the edge. He’s versatile enough to play on the strong or weak side, and is a sure tackler. Brown is a welcome addition to the Cardinals’ roster due to the team’s age at outside linebacker. But will he pan out as the impact pass rusher the Birds are looking for as the former Husky makes the transition from defensive end to outside linebacker? A bit of a reach in round two who may not contribute much in years one or two.
(3-95) Rashad Johnson, S (Alabama): The Cardinals picked up a player with great natural instincts and overall knowledge of the game. Johnson is at his best when he is able to sit back and watch the quarterback and play develop. His size and strength are the big question marks. If he can add some bulk to his upper body to make up for his height and speed, he will be a fine asset to this team. He should be able to contribute immediately as a nickel safety/special teams player.
(4-131) Greg Toler, CB (St. Paul’s): Even though he came from a small school and played teams that lacked the competition of bigger schools, Toler really impressed scouts at his workouts. He has played some semi-pro ball before so that makes up for the lack of competition he faced at St. Paul’s. The Cardinals are hoping they’ve found another Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie or at least a No. 2 corner to compliment DRC.
 (5-167) Herman Johnson, OG (LSU): The Cardinals really helped the well-being of Kurt Warner with this pick and bust their running game. Johnson is a massive 6’7/364 pounds and has great ability to move defenders off the ball. One thing he lacks is the ability to pick up linebackers at the second level. He also struggles when blocking quicker defenders. He should be able to become a quality starter after spending some time as a developmental prospect. Great upside for a fifth round pick.
(6-204) Will Davis, DE (Illinois): Davis is very athletic and had tremendous workouts. His impressive junior season was what got scouts to notice him, but his production dropped in his senior year and so did his stock. His athleticism may be what makes him a mainstay in the NFL, but there are questions whether he is athletic enough to play outside linebacker or stout enough to play end in the Cards’ three-four scheme.
(7-240) LaRod Stephens-Howling, RB (Pittsburgh): Similar to Darren Sproles in size and speed, Stephens-Howling is a versatile player. He has the ability to return kicks and can be used on some trick plays where speed and agility is a must. He should be a nice addition to a backfield that now has power, speed, and pass-catching ability.
(7-254) Trevor Canfield, OG (Cincinnati): Canfield shows hustle on every play and has that “junkyard dog” mentality. He is extremely physical and doesn’t shy away from anybody. The Cardinals found a hard worker willing to do anything for a roster spot. A potential starter along the offensive line—maybe their best value pick of all.
Team Needs: RB, OLB, C, TE, OG
Needs Filled: Three of five.
Bible’s Take: The Cardinals knew they couldn’t pass up on a talent like Beanie Wells. Wells will have to come in and show that he can be more productive than Edgerrin James was in the desert. He should be able to fit nicely into their system and help contribute to the offensive success they had last year, even with the worst rushing offense in the league. Arizona also picked up defensive help by selecting Cody Brown and Rashad Johnson, while Herman Johnson will be a great addition to the offensive line and can help protect veteran quarterback Kurt Warner. The Cards did everything they needed to do; they got a talented running back, offensive line help, and added depth to their already-strong secondary, however it is questionable how many of these players will make a major impact as rookies for what is a win now team.
Grade: C+
Photo Credit: OSU Athletics, SEC Sports Media
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