​The Arizona Cardinals had a strong draft, starting with the third overall pick by selecting running back Jeremiyah Love, a move many believe provides the pieces needed for head coach Mike LaFleur’s new offensive scheme. LaFleur, known as an offensive-minded coach, had specific needs going into free agency and the late-April draft, and ESPN has highlighted how stacked Arizona is on offense this year. The Cardinals’ offensive talent includes wide receivers Kendrick Bourne and Devin Duvernay, who joined in free agency, along with Texas Tech rookie Reggie Virgil. They’ll be integrated with young playmakers such as Michael Wilson, Marv Harrison, and Simi Fehoko, with tight end Trey McBride already among the league’s best at the position. Still, LaFleur’s system requires some flexibility and adjustments, which is a central theme for the team’s potential success this season.
The backbone of any change begins with the offensive line, which had multiple issues, especially at right tackle and the guard spots. When left tackle Paris Johnson was injured, Kelvin Beachum stepped in, a situation that underscored why many observers question his employment status. At left and right guard, the line faced ongoing questions. Will Hernandez was expected to anchor at right guard after his return, while Evan Brown and Isaiah Adams were in the mix on different timelines, depending on Hernandez’s health. Adams started Week 1 and quickly showed he could hold his own against weaker competition but struggled against stronger, elite defenders. Meanwhile, Brown had previously been a solid contributor, but his performance dipped, and personal matters further impacted his play, leaving him ranked among the lower-tier guards.
When Hernandez returned, he replaced Adams in Week 5, offering renewed hope that the line could stabilize. However, Hernandez’s return was cut short by injuries that sent him to IR on November 29, halting the hoped-for recovery and continuity along the line. Adams remained in the background to bolster SEO-style discussions, but the line’s path to reliability remains uncertain as the team progresses through the season.