The Arizona Cardinals are gearing up for a fresh start under a new offensive-minded head coach. However, a potent offense begins with a solid offensive line, and that's where the Cardinals are facing some challenges.
Last season, Arizona's offensive line struggled, ranking 26th in the league. Injuries played a significant role in this, with key players like LT Valentin Senn, LT Paris Johnson, OG Will Hernandez, and OT Jonah Williams all spending time on injured reserve. To add to their woes, starting RB James Conner and his backup, RB Trey Bensen, also ended up on IR, leaving the team scrambling for replacements.
With the NFL free agency period approaching from March 9-11, the Cardinals are in dire need of bolstering their offensive line. While they’ve re-signed Hernandez, they still face uncertainty with free agents like Jonah Williams and Kelvin Beachum. The guard position, once a source of stability, now requires urgent attention.
One potential solution for the Cardinals is OG Isaac Seumalo. Standing 6'4" and weighing 303 pounds, Seumalo brings a wealth of experience and a track record of success. Last season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, he started 14 games and played 92% of offensive snaps, earning a commendable PFF rating of 73.3.
Despite missing the first four games due to a pectoral injury, Seumalo returned to form, allowing no quarterback hits or sacks. His pass-blocking prowess is notable, with a 74.7 rating from Pro Football Focus. With 81 NFL games and 60 starts under his belt, Seumalo has been part of winning programs, a culture he could bring to the Cardinals.
Seumalo's game is built on technique rather than sheer power. His lateral quickness and strong hands make him a formidable opponent for quick defenders, although he occasionally struggles against more powerful adversaries. His versatility is a significant asset, capable of playing both guard spots and center, offering flexibility as the season progresses.
Known for his elite technical skills in pass blocking, Seumalo didn’t allow a single sack last season. Adding him to the roster could provide the Cardinals with the stability they desperately need on the offensive line, setting the stage for a more successful offensive campaign.