Last month, the Arizona Cardinals knew they needed to make an addition to the cornerback room after the unit struggled towards the end of the 2021 season. They did so, signing former Minnesota Vikings first-round pick Jeff Gladney.
Gladney, who was released by the Vikings due to domestic abuse allegations, was proven unanimously innocent in court and suddenly found himself a widely sought-after free agent. A first round selection in 2020, Gladney still has an unknown ceiling and one that could pay off well for the Cards.
They anticipate him being a starter and they love his upside.
“We got an extra first round-pick in free agency,” said Dru Grigson, the Cardinals’ director of player personnel on the Big Red Rage radio show earlier this month. “(He is) incredibly quick-footed, highly instinctive player.
“We’re getting a starter in our building without having to waste any draft capital.”
Arizona Sports 98.7’s John Gambadoro reported interest in twelve teams to sign the former TCU product. Two of those included the division rival Rams and 49ers. It’s always reassuring to have outbid multiple teams for a free agent, as it validates your view on a player.
Gladney signed a two-year, $6.5 million dollar deal, numbers that indicated he was to receive significant playing time. It has been widely reported that the Cards view him as a starter. Grigson’s comments only re-affirmed their belief in him. As of right now, Gladney projects to take Robert Alford’s position from last year, though there may still be interest in having both on the roster.
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