Is Dre Kirkpatrick heading to the desert?
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It looks to be that way for the former University of Alabama cornerback. After eight years (2012-19) with the Cincinnati Bengals, Kirkpatrick was released from the franchise on March 31 as a free agent. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the former five-star in the Crimson Tide’s 2009 recruiting class was visiting the Arizona Cardinals this weekend.
#AZCardinals are planning to sign FA CB Dre Kirkpatrick, source said, pending his physical. He’s on a visit there and assuming all works out to finalize the deal, he would reunite with DC Vance Joseph. They were together with the #Bengals & Dre credits Joseph with his development
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 23, 2020
With it losing Robert Alford to a torn pectoral muscle on last week, the team desperately needs a cornerback — opposite Patrick Peterson.
In getting Kirkpatrick on a one-year deal, the Cardinals have someone who can immediately be impactful in the secondary. He would be reunited with defensive coordinator Vance Joseph, who helped him develop with the Bengals.
The #AZCardinals are giving CB Dre Kirkpatrick a 1-year deal and they get some immediate help at a position of need thanks to the Robert Alford injury. https://t.co/LNzONNhk7m
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 23, 2020
Kirkpatrick has totaled 302 tackles, 65 pass breakups and 10 interceptions for his career.
He was a two-time BCS National Champion at Alabama, and now he’s gets a fresh start in the National Football League.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
