2004 draft set foundation in Arizona

By Brad Wilbricht  |   Wednesday, January 28, 2009  |  Comments( 1 )

Arizona Cardinals
Got something to say?

Log In above and share your thoughts on this topic with other fans!

The 2004 NFL draft supplied the NFC's current Super Bowl representative, the Arizona Cardinals, with many of the players who now make up a solid nucleus of talent in the desert.

Three starters on defense were acquired during former head coach Dennis Green’s first draft, while wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald -- arguably the team's brightest star -- was added on the offensive side of the ball. Furthermore, eight of the Cardinals’ 22 present starters were secured in the 2004-06 drafts.

Of the picks acquired during Green’s tenure in Arizona, Fitzgerald has certainly made the greatest impact. Fitzgerald was already thought of as one of the NFL’s best wideouts, but he's truly burst on the scene in these playoffs, having caught a whopping 23 passes for 419 yards and five touchdowns in three games.

During his five-year career, Fitzgerald has already racked up 426 receptions for 5,975 yards and 46 touchdowns. If he continues on his current pace, Fitzgerald’s career totals will be similar to those of the greatest receiver of all time, Jerry Rice.

Along with Fitzgerald, the same 2004 draft produced key defenders in linebacker Karlos Dansby (second round) and tackle Darnell Dockett (Round 3).

While his future with the team is uncertain (he's set to become a free agent at month's end), Dansby has been the leader of the Cardinals’ linebacking corps since his arrival in Arizona. He’s compiled 446 tackles in five seasons while adding 24.5 sacks and nine interceptions. Dansby recorded a career-high 119 tackles this season and will be a hot commodity across the league in a matter of weeks; that is, if he doesn't elect to stay with the Cards.

Dockett, meanwhile, has been the heart and soul of the Cardinals’ defensive line and was selected to his first Pro Bowl in 2007. His ability to jump around to all positions can create mismatches and wreak havoc on opposing offensive lines.

While Green has transitioned into a radio career and several other endeavors, Cardinals fans must give credit where it’s due and thank the former coach for helping build the foundation of the franchise.

Green shopped for the right groceries; successor Ken Whisenhunt has -- for lack of a better phrase -- cooked them properly.
Got something to say?

Log In above and share your thoughts on this topic with other fans! (1)

About Brad Wilbricht

Brad Wilbricht covers numerous sporting events including the NFL, NFL Draft and college football. His analysis is simulcast through several media outlets across the country. Additionally, Brad is a regular guest on a variety of talk radio shows and can be frequently heard on the airwaves. To ...
read more
Article Tools Share!   |  RSS  |  Bleacher Report About Bleacher Report