Cardinals Rookie LB Owen Pappoe Can Make Instant Impact

The Arizona Cardinals drafted Auburn LB Owen Pappoe - who projects to be one of the most impactful Day 3 picks for the upcoming season.

The Arizona Cardinals were praised for their efforts and accomplishments in the 2023 NFL Draft, and for good reason.

They were able to trade down - still get their coveted pick in the first round - and gain strong draft capital for the following season. 

Their work on Day 2 was also applauded, yet it could be one of their picks on the third and final day of the draft that pays some of the best dividends in Auburn LB Owen Pappoe, who was listed by Bleacher Report as one of top players drafted in the late rounds to contribute early:

"Zaven Collins remains at middle linebacker, and Kyzir White signed a two-year, $10 million contract with the Cardinals in free agency. However, Pappoe's speed can bring a completely different element to the Cardinals' defense," said B/R.

"The 6'0", 225-pound defender ran a 4.39-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine. Neither Collins nor White broke the 4.65 barrier at their respective pro days … The Auburn product may be small, but his quickness coupled with continued improvement could get him on the field as the Cardinals' weak-side linebacker sooner than later."

Pappoe's playing time hinges on what Arizona plans to do with Isaiah Simmons - who has displayed versatility in multiple spots along the defense since being drafted but has yet to find a permanent home. 

Pappoe told reporters he was suited to play the weakside linebacker role, a spot where many believe Simmons could align at this season. Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon has refused to tell media what his plans are for the defense, so we'll have to wait and see when it comes to who plays where. 

Should Simmons remain in the secondary, that opens the door for Pappoe to earn playing time if he impresses in training camp/preseason. 

"Expect a guy who loves the game of football and who's gonna give you all 110% of me every single day," said Pappoe. 

"I'm looking forward to working with Coach Rallis in his defense and being able to make an impact in any type of way that I can. I'm ecstatic right now, man. Words just can't explain how excited I am to be a part of the Cardinals. I'm really looking forward to helping turn this program around."

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