They likely picked the best time in recent years considering this draft class. The class has more high quality choices at premium positions with the possible exception of QB. However, there are some nice mid-round options that fit nicely into BA's game. Round 1 will offer Corners, Pass Rushers, Tight Ends, O/D Tackles, and athletic QBs. Round 2 will likely offer Linebackers, Corners and Receivers that might have been Round 1 talent in recent drafts. In the next 2 rounds after that a QBOTF should still be on the board along with return specialists, runners and pass catchers. If the Cards draft mid-round they will likely acquire at least 2 immediate starters and likely 2 more future starters.
Of course all this depends on the Cards making good selections. The last 2 years it seems like they've been trying to grab projects. Ones they thought they could out guess everyone else and turn into blossoming steals. So far they've gotten only a limited return on their investment. Sometimes going away from the consensus can be rewarding but continuously doing it is rarely the path to success. No draft expert hits on all picks, but constantly selecting long shots usually leaves you coming home from the track with empty pockets. There are now so many qualified talent evaluators on the internet that trying constantly to pick someone no one else even thinks of usually is a path to failure. The Cards need to adapt a strategy of picking players who may not be wishful thinking superstars, but instead are players who can make a certain contribution. The Cards will have a core of quality players in 2017; they just need to add in some solid performers.
Of course all this depends on the Cards making good selections. The last 2 years it seems like they've been trying to grab projects. Ones they thought they could out guess everyone else and turn into blossoming steals. So far they've gotten only a limited return on their investment. Sometimes going away from the consensus can be rewarding but continuously doing it is rarely the path to success. No draft expert hits on all picks, but constantly selecting long shots usually leaves you coming home from the track with empty pockets. There are now so many qualified talent evaluators on the internet that trying constantly to pick someone no one else even thinks of usually is a path to failure. The Cards need to adapt a strategy of picking players who may not be wishful thinking superstars, but instead are players who can make a certain contribution. The Cards will have a core of quality players in 2017; they just need to add in some solid performers.
