Cardinals Would Love Veteran Tackle Kelvin Beachum Back

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The Arizona Cardinals have several key free agency decisions to make this offseason, including whether to bring back veteran offensive tackle Kelvin Beachum. Beachum, 36, has spent the last six seasons in Arizona, starting 73 of 92 games as a reliable swing tackle filling in at both left and right tackle. With a hole at right tackle after Jonah Williams' departure, the Cardinals would likely be willing to bring Beachum back on a similar $4 million deal he had last season to provide depth and competition along the offensive line.

Why it matters

The Cardinals' offensive line has been a weakness in recent seasons, and Beachum has been a steadying presence, filling in admirably when needed. Retaining the veteran tackle would give the team insurance and depth at a critical position as they look to rebuild the line around young talent like left tackle Paris Johnson Jr.

The details

Beachum is a 14-year NFL veteran who has spent the last six seasons with the Cardinals. He has started 73 of 92 games for Arizona, proving to be an effective swing tackle capable of playing both left and right tackle. With Jonah Williams departing in free agency, the Cardinals have a hole at right tackle that they will need to address, either in free agency or the draft. Beachum, who was contemplating retirement last offseason before returning, could provide a veteran presence and competition at the position, even if he is not relied upon as a full-time starter.

• Beachum made $4 million last season with the Cardinals.
• Beachum was contemplating retirement last offseason before returning to Arizona.

What’s next

The Cardinals will need to decide whether to bring Beachum back on a new contract, likely similar to the $4 million deal he had last season, to provide depth and competition at right tackle.