Early Arizona Cardinals Standouts to Keep an Eye On

Wilson utilizes clean footwork to be able to plant his outside foot at the top of the route and burst into the middle of the field. His size brings an element to the offense that Marquise Brown, Rondale Moore, and Greg Dortch just don’t possess.

Matthew is likely best in “off-ball” coverage. He is a strong corner who will practice his press techniques. By doing so, he will be able to disrupt timing, making it more difficult to play “off the ball” coverage.

Wilson, Matthew Early Cardinals Standouts

Wilson may end up being a long-term player in Arizona. Injuries aside, had he been allowed the benefit of playing instead of being injured, he probably goes higher in the draft. For the Cardinals, they got a potential standout.

As for Matthew, he has work to do but was an absolute steal in the draft. Seventh-round pick aside, the raw nature of his talent can and should buy him time to develop.

Wish-casting aside, players looking to establish a season of “on-the-job-training” are in the right city with the right franchise. In too many ways, the Arizona Cardinals are not unlike an expansion team. A lot of no-names mixed in with a few veterans will take the field in Washington for Week 1 against the Commanders. Wins may be few, very few, but the beginning of careers may be plentiful. Cornerback Christian Matthew and wide receiver Michael Wilson are two who landed in the right place at the right time. Now, it is up to them to make good on the opportunity.