The Arizona Cardinals have made it clear—they’re looking to add some serious size to their roster in the upcoming NFL Draft. If recent mock drafts and scouting reports are any indication, Arizona is stacking up on massive linemen, leading some fans to wonder: Are they rebuilding their offensive and defensive lines, or are they secretly starting an all-you-can-eat steakhouse?
Bigger, Stronger, Beefier: The Cardinals’ Draft Strategy
Arizona’s 2024 season showed flashes of promise, but one glaring issue stood out—getting pushed around in the trenches. The offensive line struggled to keep Kyler Murray upright, while the defensive front often found itself overpowered in crucial moments. The solution? Bring in reinforcements. And not just any reinforcements—big, mean, weight-room warriors who can outmuscle the competition.
Recent mock drafts suggest the Cardinals are prioritizing the big boys, with defensive tackle Kenneth Grant (6’3”, 340 lbs) and offensive tackle Aireontae Ersery (6’6”, 325 lbs) among the top prospects linked to Arizona. With size like that, the Cardinals won’t just be winning battles in the trenches—they might also be winning barbecue competitions.
Are the Cardinals Going Full “Ground and Pound”?
With this apparent focus on size, does this mean Arizona is shifting to a power-run offense? The addition of massive linemen could hint at a strategy change, focusing on smash-mouth football to control the clock and wear down defenses. For years, the Cardinals have been a pass-heavy team, relying on Kyler Murray’s mobility and quick decision-making. But with beefy linemen incoming, Arizona could be preparing to add more power runs, screens, and play-action to their game plan.
If they’re going this route, it makes sense. The NFC West is full of physical defenses, and Arizona needs to match that intensity if they want to compete with teams like San Francisco and Seattle. A dominant offensive line could open up the run game for James Conner while giving Kyler Murray more time to make plays.
Defense Wins Championships—And Arizona’s Loading Up
It’s not just the offense getting an upgrade—Arizona’s defense also needs a major boost in the trenches. Adding someone like Kenneth Grant, a monstrous defensive tackle, could help the Cardinals finally develop a consistent pass rush while also stopping the run. Last season, Arizona’s defense had moments of brilliance but lacked the consistency needed to compete against top offenses.
Final Thoughts: Big Beef, Big Wins?
If the Cardinals commit to this strategy, it could pay off in a big way. The NFL is still a game of physicality, and winning the battle in the trenches is often the key to success. Whether this draft class transforms Arizona into a playoff contender or simply adds to their steakhouse-sized roster, one thing’s for sure—this team is about to get a whole lot stronger.
