Making the Leap: Christian Kirk

Christian Kirk

2018 Stats

12 Games

68 Targets

43 Receptions

590 Yards

3 Touchdowns

13.7 Yards Per Reception

Christian Kirk was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals with the 15th pick in the Second Round of the 2018 NFL Draft. At 5 Feet 11 Inches and 190 lbs, he doesn’t fit the mold of Outside perimeter receivers like Julio Jones or A.J Green, but he isn’t just a slot receiver. He played 85.9% of the team’s snaps during the games in which he was active, with only 21.5% of those coming from the slot. (Via PlayerProfiler) Kirk also received 20.4% of the teams targets For comparison, Doug Baldwin received 22.4% of his team’s targets. Kirk was very successful throughout his rookie year, and he looked more confident as the season progressed. His True Catch rate of 89.9% ranked 12th among ALL NFL Wide Receivers in 2018.

His 2019 Outlook is similarly bright. Under new Head Coach Kliff Kingsbury, the Arizona offense is loaded with potential. David Johnson remains a workhorse back while progression is to be expected from Josh Rosen, the 2018 first round pick. Larry Fitzgerald was also resigned for the 2019 season, allowing him to obtain an additional year of guidance while allowing him the opportunity to get consistent one on one opportunity vs Defensive Backs. While he is recovering from a foot injury, Kirk is expected to be a full go for the 2019 season.

Kirk is a tough, exciting prospect that the Cardinals will look to involve more in the offense. In many ways, he is similar to Seattle’s Doug Baldwin. He has excellent hands, is shifty and quick in space with reliable hands. Those in Dynasty leagues would be wise to stash the talented Wide Receiver, as has great potential in a growing offense.

2019 Projection: High End WR3/Flex