This summer, the Arizona Cardinals prioritized adding veteran NFL starters and free agents Justin Jones, Bilal Nichols, and Sean Murphy-Bunting to strengthen their defensive roster.
However, none have affected the team more than Mack Wilson Sr. five games into the regular season.
The adaptable Wilson, who spent the previous four seasons splitting time between Cleveland and New England on defence, is now firmly established as a starter in coordinator Nick Rallis’ defence.
Wilson saw an opportunity and took it, blending in perfectly with MIKE linebacker Kyzir White. It’s best for the Cardinals and him alike.
Wilson remarked on Monday, “I just honestly feel like I was playing football in high school.” “Just being myself there and having the ability to play in a variety of ways both on and off the ball.” Being supported by my brothers, who have faith in me and regard me differently than I may have been viewed elsewhere, is very great. It feels different, and it’s simple to put yourself out there and risk everything for these men.
He said, “To be honest, I wouldn’t change a thing,” when asked if Arizona had lived up to his expectations. Even if we’re only two or three points behind, I think our football team is excellent. There is a lot of ball in front of us. We shall persist in addressing each day as it arises. Something is still cooking in the desert.
Regardless of where the Cardinals line him up, Wilson keeps packing the stat sheet. That was also the case in Arizona’s 24-23 victory over the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday.
In addition to recording six tackles in the win, Wilson demonstrated his flexibility by being a major contributor to two turnovers in the second half that sparked Arizona’s rally.
Although Wilson’s interception in the third quarter helped the 49ers close the gap to 23–13 with a field goal from Chad Ryland, the Cardinals were able to salvage a win thanks to Wilson’s fumble recovery following a Jesse Luketa punchout in the red zone.
James Conner, the running back, and quarterback Kyler Murray took advantage of the turnover to lead the offence on a 14-play, 75-yard drive that ended with a game-winning field goal.
That is about as complementing as it gets!
Even though Wilson is a very skilled football player, head coach Jonathan Gannon has been equally impressed with the veteran off the field. Gannon didn’t have high expectations for Wilson when he signed with Arizona.
“We knew the character was accurate, we had a vision for him, and I knew he was smart, competitive, and tough as nails,” Gannon remarked. “Considering his history and his previous playing experiences, I do believe that also holds significance. You all know where he received his training. He has surpassed my expectations in terms of character and leadership. When you sign someone, you have no idea what that will entail.
“You conduct your research, but when they arrive, it’s not to judge what’s good or wrong. This individual is fully committed to our mission. In terms of what I anticipate from him as a Cardinal, he is going above and beyond. Additionally,that has been cool.
The other significant benefit pertaining to Wilson is his contract. This is not a one-year rental; he is one of the few free agents to sign three-year contracts with the Cardinals since general manager Monti Ossenfort arrived.
If only there was more information available on a possible White extension.
