The Cardinals need to emerge from the draft with some prospects at outside linebacker.
The top four players at those spots, all free agent signees over the past few years, either are over 30 or have injury issues or both.
The team hasn't drafted a productive outside linebacker since 2004, when it took Karlos Dansby, who eventually moved inside. An argument could be made that the last true quality outside linebacker taken was Jamir Miller in 1994.
Since then, the Cardinals have filled the gap with free agents and other journeyman.
The starters now, Travis LaBoy and Chike Okeafor, each have issues. LaBoy, who turns 28 in August, was hampered by a variety of leg issues last season.
LaBoy's backup, Bertrand Berry, will turn 34 in August.
The Cardinals don't need to get a starter out of this draft, but they do need the infusion of a young, talented player. Or maybe two.
New coordinator Bill Davis would like to move toward a more traditional 3-4 alignment, and outside linebackers are the key to making that system work.
It's a complicated job, one that takes many players three or four years to grow into. The Cardinals need to start the process immediately.
