1. Weak-side linebacker
Kareem Martin and Jason Babin will be the top-two players in the rotation here. Each provides something different, but both players are somewhat limited. With Deone Bucannon and Kevin Minter slated to start at the other two linebacker positions, finding an upgrade here would bring an already elite Cardinals defense to the next level.
2. Quarterback
This is all about finding a quarterback to replace an aging Carson Palmer in the not-so-distant future. Palmer is more than prepared to lead this team for the next two seasons, but he's going to be hanging them up here soon. The good news? Arizona doesn't necessarily need to reach for a quarterback in the early rounds. Instead, the team can find a project arm in the middle of the draft.
3. Tight End
Former second-round pick Troy Niklas simply hasn't panned out. He's recorded a total of seven receptions in two seasons, showing an inability to actually produce at anywhere near a starter level. While Darren Fells and Jermaine Gresham did come down with a combined 39 receptions, neither one has proven to be much of a difference maker in the passing game. Despite the weak draft class at tight end, looked for the Cards to hit this position at some point this week.
4. Defensive End
The addition of Chandler Jones was absolutely huge for Arizona. He's going to be the team's best pass-rush option over the long term, eventually replacing Calais Campbell as the face of the front seven. Unfortunately, the Cardinals don't have much behind these two. Sure Babin and Markus Golden provide pass-rush ability from the linebacker position, but neither is suited to play from a hands-down position along the defensive line.
5. Nose Tackle
Corey Peters will provide a solid ability over the short term, but finding depth behind him will be huge for the Cardinals moving forward. A true run-stuffing nose tackle is what's needed here. Unfortunately, that position is limited in the 2016 NFL draft.
Mock Draft | Round | Player | Position | School |
| 1 | Robert Nkemdiche | Defensive End | Mississippi |
| 3 | Josh Garnett | Guard | Stanford |
| 4 | Jaylon Smith | Linebacker | Notre Dame |
| 5 | Cardale Jones | Quarterback | Ohio State |
| 5 | Deion James | Linebacker | LSU |
| 6 | Jake McGee | Tight End | Florida |