The Arizona Cardinals, in a wise move to lock up their defense for years to come, have inked linebacker Zaven Collins to an extra two year $14 million extension. The move further solidifies the team’s commitment to a strong defensive front, and demonstrates how much of an immediate impact Collins has on the field. Find out more about the extension, Collins’ road to get here with the Cardinals and what it means moving forward in this edition of ‘Expected Value’
The Journey of Zaven Collins
Early Career and Draft Day
The team selected University of Tulsa standout Zaven Collins in the first round this year. In college he was a standout, winning the Bronko Nagurski Trophy that underscored his sky-high defensive ceiling. His talent made the Cardinals see enough in him to draft Williams 16th overall with an expectation he would soon become a key cog on defense.
Rookie Season Highlights
In the case of Collins, it was a mix of learning and showing off his wares in an impressive rookie season. He fit right in with the speed of an NFL game, showcasing his versatility and football IQ. He used his studying of the game and his physicality to help in the secondary for Arizona. Collins, who was especially important in many games this season for helping set the defensive scheme and making key open-field tackles.
The Contract Exension : What It Means
Financial Breakdown
This $14 million,LB Zaven Collins two-year contract extension is an illustration of that confidence in Collins from the Cardinals. This deal has $9 million guaranteed – strapping Collins with cash while shackling him to the organization. This deal is set up to be good for both sides, as the extension gives significant financial wiggle room with potential further performance-based incentives.
Impact on the Team
For Arizona, bringing Collins back for another two years makes sense. His presence at the linebacker position solidifies a defence core that needs it, and brings some experience. An extension of this size lets the Cardinals begin to build around a player with more than just unreal tools who pays full price and comes back for seconds. But having Collins as its leader on the field and in the locker room, is something of immeasurable value for a culture that prides itself in this position group to be tough no matter what.
Zaven Collins / a Defensive Beast
Skill Set and Attributes
A mixture between athleticism, intelligence and instinct is what makes the traits of Collins special. He stands six-foot-four and weighs in at 260 pounds, the perfect size for an NFL linebacker. He has the speed and quickness to cover a lot of ground in a hurry, but he is also strong enough to be an effective tackler. Furthermore, Collins also displays an understanding of the game and can read plays as a strategic defender.
Key Performances
Collins has had many big performances throughout his time with the Cardinals that have cemented this reputation. His game-winning tackles, crucial interceptions and knack for disrupting other teams’ offenses have been key parts of the Cardinals defensive success. Even if he was average in 2019, Collins proved over the course of last season that there may be a lot to come from him, and so he is set for an intriguing few years.
Upcoming For the Cardinals
Building a Strong Defense
Now, the Cardinals can begin to put as unit together on defense around Collins. That nurture provides a bedrock from which the team can plot and add up further pieces. It keeps the Cardinals’ defense intact, something that is critical not only for cohesion but execution.
Potential for Playoff Success
The Cardinals are looking to build on that in 2020 with at least a playoff appearance, and Collins will be called upon for more of the same. In high-stakes games, the experience and skills he brings to the table will be vital as defensive efforts usually decide such games. By investing in Collins, the team is signaling it aims to compete with anyone now.
LB Zaven Collins
LB Zaven Collins is getting paid like he first-round selection, if the Arizona Cardinals have their way. Collins will bring an added layer of versatility, experience and leadership to the Patriots defense as a linebacker. It saves an important piece for the Cardinals on a contract and gives them more flexibility in future years. The addition of Collins means the Cardinals are in a good spot to improve their defense and pursue postseason success. These next few seasons could be very fun to watch as Collins helps write his story with the Cardinals.
