Cardinals’ 2017 draft class likely to have greater impact than 2016

Last year’s Cardinals draft class played a total of 594 snaps on offense and defense, ranking 31st in the NFL for rookie snaps.

In comparison, the Vikings’ rookie class was last in the league with 347 snaps, while the Browns had 14 draft picks and finished first overall with 5,521 snaps.

When it comes to the Cardinals, this year’s top three draft picks should be able to contribute more than the team’s entire 2016 draft class.

Looking back at the 2016 draft class total snaps

DT Robert Nkemdiche: (89) 83 on defense, 6 on special teams (1.3%)

CB Brandon Williams: (387) 240 on defense, 147 on special teams (30.8%)

RG Evan Boehm: (204) 122 on offense, 82 on special teams (17.2%)

DB Harlan Miller: (172) 139 on defense, 33 on special teams (6.9%)

OL Cole Toner: (19) 10 on offense, 9 on special teams (1.9%)

S Marqui Christian: (0) was released on September 27th, claimed by the Rams

Based on the 2017 class, my projection for their greater impact this season:

1st rd LB Haason Reddick: Will play ILB, OLB and special teams

2nd round DB Budda Baker: Has versatility at CB, S and special teams

3rd round WR Chad Williams: Shows decisive speed and strong hands, likely fifth WR

4th round G Dorian Johnson: Provides depth, guard is his natural position

5th round OT Will Holden: Effective size could be the future swing tackle

5th round RB-KR T.J. Logan: Offers depth in the backfield, option at KR

6th round DB Rudy Ford: Drafted to play CB but eventually play S

All seven draft picks should make the 53-man roster, but at least one or two could be inactive on game day depending on injuries throughout the season. They may also be practice squad options if they clear waivers.

Of course, only time will tell how much of a mark this year’s class will make in their rookie seasons, and only then we will see how they compare with last year’s.