The Arizona Cardinals have had a substantial number of third-round picks over the last decade, with 2024 adding to their roster. Players like Trey Benson and Tip Reiman are expected to contribute significantly moving forward. The recent haul has shown a mix of hits and misses; Garrett Williams and Michael Wilson have emerged as promising talents, while others like Chad Williams faltered. Zach Allen, once a Cardinal, made an impression as a second-team All-Pro with the Denver Broncos. Currently, the Cardinals are banking on new additions like Benson and Wilson to elevate their game in the upcoming seasons.

The Arizona Cardinals face significant contract extensions as key players like tight end Trey McBride and cornerback Garrett Williams head into negotiations. With the market for wide receivers escalating, highlighted by Ja'Marr Chase's staggering four-year, $161 million deal, the Cardinals could anticipate hefty extensions in the coming years, especially for players like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Garrett Williams. Harrison could command a contract similar to those of top receivers if he posts impressive seasons, while Williams is poised for his own lucrative extension next offseason. The franchise's challenge will be balancing these financial commitments while maintaining roster strength.

The Arizona Cardinals are benefiting from a performance-based pay system that rewards players based on their contributions on the field. Cornerback Star Thomas V leads the team with a substantial bonus of $797,669.80, attributed to his 77.3% snap count last season. Despite none of their players breaking into the NFL's top 25 for performance pay, several Cardinals enjoyed significant payouts. The team's total performance-based pay this year amounted to $14.128 million, part of a broader league pool of $452.096 million since the program's inception in 2002.

Notably, players with lower salaries and higher playing time percentages gleaned the most from this system. Alongside Thomas, wide receiver Michael Wilson and cornerback Garrett Williams also received hefty bonuses, highlighting the importance of snap counts in determining eligibility for these payouts. The performance pay structure underscores the value placed on player contributions that go beyond just base salaries, providing motivation for athletes to perform at their best week after week.

The Arizona Cardinals are gaining national attention, with several players recognized in Pro Football Focus's annual 101 players list for their strong performances in the 2024 season. Running back James Conner ranked #81, cornerback Garrett Williams came in at #73, while tight end Trey McBride solidified his place as a top-50 player at #42, trailing only stars Brock Bowers and George Kittle.

However, one significant player missed the cut: safety Budda Baker. Despite a stellar season, marked by a second-place finish in total tackles (164) and a solid PFF grade of 77.8, he was overlooked for recognition alongside notable safeties such as Jessie Bates III and Derwin James. Baker’s impressive play and his recent three-year, $54 million contract extension underscore his importance to the Cardinals, especially as a defensive leader.

PFF's NFL Week 17 Team of the Week has been unveiled, showcasing standout players based on performance grades and snap counts. The selections highlight those who not only excelled in their individual performances but also demonstrated consistency over a significant number of plays. The criteria emphasize the importance of maintaining high performance levels, which is crucial in the competitive landscape of the NFL.

Leading the offensive lineup is quarterback Joe Burrow from the Cincinnati Bengals, who delivered an outstanding performance against the Denver Broncos, completing 39 of 49 passes for 412 yards. His efforts were pivotal in keeping the Bengals' playoff hopes alive. Joining him in the offensive spotlight are notable players like Derrick Henry from the Baltimore Ravens and rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers from the New York Giants, who had a remarkable game against the Indianapolis Colts.

On the defensive side, edge rusher Nolan Smith of the Philadelphia Eagles made a significant impact against the Dallas Cowboys, achieving an impressive run-defense grade. His ability to disrupt plays was complemented by strong performances from other defensive players, including Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns and John Franklin-Myers of the Denver Broncos. The special teams also made their mark with standout players like kicker Cam Little from the Jacksonville Jaguars.

This week's selections demonstrate the depth of talent across the league, with players rising to the occasion in critical moments as the season heads into its final stretch.