Arizona is looking at an uphill climb in 2023. However, there are some diamonds in the rough to consider. Daniel Arias is an undrafted player could have a big impact for the Cardinals.
Undrafted Daniel Arias Could Have Big Impact for Cardinals
Arias flashed at Colorado. He finished his college career with 48 catches for 750 yards and four touchdowns over 50 games, the most ever played by a CU receiver.
The UDFA did have some issues with dropped passes at times, but his talent has never been a question. When on special teams, Arias used his speed, becoming an exceptional “gunner” on the punt team and forcing 26 fair catches.
The former CU receiver has shown to be both steady and productive. In 2022, the Buffaloes wide receiver appeared in all 12 games, finishing with 19 receptions for 309 yards and a touchdown.
Perhaps most impressive, and something that should not get lost here, is the tumultuous nature of the Colorado football program. Arias had four head coaches (Mike MacIntyre, Mel Tucker, Karl Dorrell and Mike Sanford). Additionally, he had four offensive coordinators, and multiple position coaches.
Despite the chop and change, Arias’ efforts earned him the Tom McMahon Award, given annually to a Colorado offensive player for their dedication and work ethic.
From this, it is clear that the Cardinals have a good one here. Arias is a big-bodied receiver that pairs nicely with Michael Wilson. It is clear that, with Arias, Arizona want size and aggressiveness on the perimeter this season.
Arizona players are in a unique position in this season of rebuilding. With the Cardinals predicted to be somewhere between a bottom-feeder or worse, a good impression can be made.
With the wide receiver position being what it is, alongside the departure of DeAndre Hopkins, opportunities are prime. Marquise Brown is the only lock, but a lot of time will be shared between the rookies Wilson and Arias.
How Daniel Arias can Make a Splash
Arias is 6’-4” tall, has a 79” wingspan, and weighs in at 215 pounds. In a game against Washington in Seattle, Arias went up to get one against the Husky defender.
Here's a look at that 37-yard touchdown pass from @Airmontez12 to Daniel Arias
WATCH on FOX#GoBuffs #CUvsUW #BeatUW pic.twitter.com/Tyyr4zVsza
— Colorado Buffaloes Football (@CUBuffsFootball) October 20, 2018
Against UCLA, Arias simply got in front of his Bruin defender with rocket-like speed to come up with a big catch at the Rose Bowl.
Check out @MJBuffsVoice’s call of the game on this great catch by Daniel Arias! pic.twitter.com/6UGyHzov6v
— Colorado Football/Basketball Radio Network (@CURadioNetwork) November 14, 2021
The Cardinals will love this Colorado receiver. He is a speed demon who logged a 4.52-second 40-time. He can get down the field quickly while his length can bring in passes over the reach of defenders.
For Arizona fans wondering why he is such an intriguing player, look at the tape, not his production. The sheer amount of change season to season never allowed his collegiate career to get off the ground.
Odds are against Arias earning a spot on the roster as a position player. His impact in 2023 is likely to be on special teams with brief appearances as a receiver.
That said, the Cardinals will provide him an opportunity to carve out a nice career. The NFL is filled with niche players who can find longevity in specialty roles. Fans should remember that Steve Tasker, who retired from the Buffalo Bills in 1997, made a career on special teams. Arias could be that kind of player.
Main Photo: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
