As the Arizona Cardinals gear up for the 2025 NFL season, they are making headlines not only through player acquisitions but also with record-breaking ticket sales, reflecting increasing confidence among fans and management alike.
In a significant move, the Cardinals have signed linebacker Josh Sweat to a four-year contract worth $76.4 million, signaling their commitment to strengthening their defense. The deal, announced on March 19, 2025, includes a remarkable $38 million fully guaranteed and a $22.1 million signing bonus. This investment showcases the team's belief in Sweat's abilities as a dynamic pass rusher, crucial for shoring up their defensive strategies.
The decision to acquire Sweat aligns with the Cardinals' overall strategy of enhancing their roster. Alongside Sweat, the team also signed defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson, reinforcing their capacity to stop the run. The dual signings illustrate a clear intent to improve upon their 8-9 finish last season after a dismal 4-13 record in 2023.
As the Cardinals prepare for the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, they hold the 16th pick. This position presents a different challenge compared to last year when they selected fourth overall. General Manager Monti Ossenfort is now tasked with maximizing their draft capital to bolster the team further.
Expert commentators have weighed in on various potential picks, with some eyeing Kenneth Grant from Michigan, who excelled in the run defense. Notably, during a crucial matchup against Ohio State, Grant recorded five quarterback pressures, making him a hot commodity heading into the draft. Commentators suggest, "Drafting Grant would further strengthen their defensive front. This is a copycat league, and the Cardinals should know that players who can disrupt from the interior are valuable," emphasized Joel Klatt from Fox Sports.
In addition to Grant, the spotlight also falls on offensive line talent like Kelvin Banks Jr. from Texas, who has shown impressive stats, allowing only one sack all season and winning both the Outland Trophy and Lombardi Trophy. Analysts are enthusiastic about Banks, stating, "Whether Kelvin Banks Jr. plays guard or tackle, the Cardinals will be happy to have him protecting Kyler Murray and blocking for James Conner," highlighted by Kyle Stackpole.
Meanwhile, the Cardinals are not merely focused on player acquisitions; their business operations are thriving as well. This offseason marks one of their best in years, with season ticket renewals exceeding 90%, the highest in a decade. Alongside this, around 7,000 new season tickets have been sold, reflecting a 50% increase compared to the previous year. These figures indicate a robust engagement from fans, signalling a renewed optimism about the team's trajectory.
Jeremy Walls, the Cardinals' COO, attributed the success to several factors, including a new approach to business operations focusing on affordability compared to other NFL teams. "The new season-ticket holders believe the team is heading in the right direction and they are excited for what will happen on the field in 2025," Walls noted.
Looking toward the draft, another name making rounds is James Pearce Jr. from Tennessee. Known for his speed, having clocked a 4.47-second 40-yard dash, Pearce has been a standout with impressive stats, including 19.5 sacks during his three seasons. Analysts are enthusiastic about the potential impact he could have on the Cardinals' pass rush. “He could be the solution to a lack of a true pass rusher last season,” according to John Kosko, a recognized voice in NFL analysis.
As the Cardinals continue to solidify their roster through careful acquisitions and prepare strategically for the draft, the support from fans through ticket sales provides a foundation for hopeful progress. With the offseason shaping up to be one of transformation, the combination of strategic signings and dedicated fan engagement could signal a year of significant change for the Cardinals.
The combination of Josh Sweat’s high-profile contract, the strategic signing of established talents like Dalvin Tomlinson, and a vibrant fan engagement strategy bodes well for the Arizona Cardinals. Their focus as they head into the new season is clear: improving performance on the field while fostering a deeper connection with their fan base.
