1: R1P29
QB PAXTON LYNCH, MEMPHIS
Let's just say I'm not too optimistic for the future of this team post-Carson Palmer and I think the Cardinals need to try and identify his replacement soon. Keim doesn't often overrule his head coach, but I think if a talented QB is available, Keim needs to pull the trigger even though Arians isn't fond of QBs sitting.
Lynch has the arm and size that Arians wants in his offense, but he offers improved foot speed over the Cardinals current QBs. One positive is that he isn't a running QB; every time he runs he looks to complete the downfield pass.
2: R3P30
C NICK MARTIN, NOTRE DAME
In round one, I wanted to first address the d-line or draft a center. I just felt that the potential impact of a future starting QB out weighed drafting interior linemen. I got lucky that Martin slid to the late third round, but this isn't totally unrealistic. Many hear the name Martin and they think he is going to be an instant impact player like his brother, but a few analysts I've read say that he needs more work in an NFL program before he'll make a huge impact.
3: R4P30
DT ADOLPHUS WASHINGTON, OHIO STATE
The pickings got slimmer for lineman in the 4th and Washington was head and shoulders the best prospect (I know of) left over. Washington isn't great as a pass rusher or run defender, but he is good at both and provides another rotational piece going forward.
In an ideal world, I would have been able to get a top D line prospect earlier, but I settle for a good rotational player. Campbell's future contract issues loom large for this team....
4: R5P28
CB LESHAUN SIMS, SOUTHERN UTAH
Without a 2nd round pick, the Cardinals miss out on quite a few good prospects, but Sims is a nice developmental prospect 2-3 years down the road. At 6', 200, with 4.4 speed, Sims excelled at a smaller program displaying ballhawk skills (5 interceptions) and good press man skills.
5: R5P31
ILB TRAVIS FEENEY, WASHINGTON
The Cardinals continue adding defensive depth by adding Washington team captain, Travis Feeney. He tested well at the combine (4.6 40) and demonstrated playmaking ability his senior final season (8 sacks, 17 TFLs). Feeney slides because of his slight build and injury history. He steps in on obvious pass rushing situations.
6: R6P30
OT BRANDON SHELL, SOUTH CAROLINA
Early in his career at South Carolina, Brandon Shell looked like he was going to be a high pick, but he failed take his play to the next level. The great nephew of Raiders hall of famer, Art Shell, Brandon Shell will step in and be the swing tackle for the Cardinals after lining up over the left and right side with South Carolina.