As the Arizona Cardinals conclude the initial wave of NFL free agency, they have made significant strides in reshaping their roster, particularly in the defensive line and linebacker units. According to PFF's Max Chadwick, the team's defensive line was recently noted as the most improved position unit based on their off-season acquisitions.
On March 19, 2025, the Cardinals invested nearly $125 million in their defensive front, aiming to upgrade from a dismal 28th ranking in the league. Among the key signings is edge rusher Josh Sweat, who had an impressive record with the Philadelphia Eagles, tallying 10.5 sacks during the regular season and playoffs. He is expected to be a critical asset in revamping Arizona's pass rush.
The Cardinals also secured the services of defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson, another strategic addition who has been consistently rated among the top interior defenders throughout his career. Last season, Tomlinson recorded 16 tackles and four sacks while contributing to the Cleveland Browns’ efforts. With his experience, he brings much-needed stability and strength to Arizona’s front line.
Re-signing outside linebacker Baron Browning, who ranks 23rd in both pass-rush grade and win rate, underscores the Cardinals' commitment to improving their defensive capabilities. In addition, L.J. Collier was brought back on a one-year deal to further fortify the defensive line.
However, improvements do not come without losses. The Cardinals have bid farewell to several players, including linemen Khyiris Tonga, Roy Lopez, and Naquan Jones, leaving them to seek better injury luck this season after a rough year that saw multiple defensive players sidelined, such as Bilal Nichols and Justin Jones.
The Cardinals' defensive retooling is fairly evident as they were 13th in the NFL for total sacks last year, finishing with 41. Despite this statistic, none of the players posted impressive individual numbers, as outside linebacker Zaven Collins led the team with just five sacks.
Moreover, the Cardinals made a noteworthy signing in Akeem Davis-Gaither, also on March 19, coming off a late-season opportunity with the Cincinnati Bengals, which further enhances their linebacker depth.
Across the league, USA TODAY's Nate Davis gave the Cardinals a B-minus rating for their free agency moves, suggesting a solid performance but without overwhelming enthusiasm. Davis highlighted the potential for a mixed bag in terms of overall team outcome, stating that their changes could improve their defensive ratings moving forward.
In addition to defensive changes, the Cardinals must also address remaining concerns on their offensive line. Current right guard Will Hernandez is a free agent while recovering from a torn ACL, and his future with the team remains uncertain. ESPN suggested several potential candidates, including the Baltimore Ravens, Las Vegas Raiders, and Seattle Seahawks as possible fits for Hernandez.
In a recent interview, Hernandez expressed a strong desire to return to the Cardinals, stating, "Of course I would love to stay where I'm at, where I already built these relationships." His loyalty to the team, combined with the rapport he has developed with teammates, adds weight to his potential return and the team’s overall continuity moving forward.
The Cardinals also need to explore improvements in their receiver and guard positions, especially with a lackluster offensive display last season, and further adjustments may still be in play as the draft approaches. Overall, the changes that have taken place during this free agency period indicate a general commitment by General Manager Monti Ossenfort, as he seeks to maneuver and assemble a more competitive team for the upcoming season.
As the organization looks to enhance their linebacker corps, former Cardinals captain Kyzir White remains a potential re-signing candidate. At 28 years old, White had demonstrated his capacity for run defense with strong numbers last season, yet his free agency status remains unchanged, and he may still provide valuable experience to a young group that needs leadership.
In summary, the Cardinals have made notable upgrades through smart investment during free agency, reflected in the signings of significant players like Josh Sweat and Dalvin Tomlinson. However, questions linger about complete coverage across the roster, and the team will need to maintain adaptive strategies as they prepare for the 2025 season.
