The Arizona Cardinals’ offseason has been marked by significant changes, bold decisions, and a clear focus on rebuilding for the future. With a new regime in place, including a fresh head coach and an updated front office, the team has made several moves aimed at revitalizing the franchise and returning to contention in the NFC West. The Cardinals’ offseason decisions have prompted a range of opinions from analysts and fans alike, as they try to assess the franchise’s direction. The question on everyone’s mind is simple: Have the Cardinals done enough to improve? Is this offseason a step in the right direction, or are there still more holes to fill?
The team’s performance during the 2024 NFL season was lackluster, resulting in a high draft pick and the inevitable need for a rebuild. After the dismissal of head coach Kliff Kingsbury, the arrival of Jonathan Gannon as the new head coach brought a fresh perspective to the organization. There was hope that his leadership could help right the ship and lay a foundation for sustained success. The offseason was crucial for the team to start making the right moves, both on the field and in the locker room.
One of the most pressing questions going into the offseason was the future of quarterback Kyler Murray. After signing a large contract extension prior to the 2024 season, the franchise had a vested interest in getting the most out of their young quarterback. Murray has shown glimpses of brilliance during his time in Arizona but has struggled with consistency, injuries, and poor team play around him. In the early part of the offseason, the Cardinals made it clear that they were fully committed to Murray, with reports suggesting that Gannon and new general manager Monti Ossenfort would tailor their approach to help Murray thrive. That said, they would also be open to the possibility of trading him if the right deal came along. Fortunately for the Cardinals, the decision was made to build around their star quarterback rather than entertain trade talks.
A major highlight of the offseason was the Cardinals’ work in the 2025 NFL Draft. With the third overall pick, the Cardinals were positioned to make a splash, and they didn’t disappoint. Arizona selected Paris Johnson Jr., an offensive tackle from Ohio State, to solidify their offensive line. Johnson was considered one of the top prospects at his position, and his ability to protect Murray’s blindside is crucial for the team’s success. The Cardinals have struggled in the trenches for years, and adding a top-tier talent like Johnson was a much-needed step to bolster their protection for Murray and open up the running game. It was a decision that many analysts praised, as it showed the team’s commitment to developing a solid foundation in the trenches, a key element for long-term success in the NFL.
The Cardinals also addressed their defensive needs with several key draft selections. After finishing near the bottom of the league in total defense, particularly against the pass, it was clear that they needed to upgrade their personnel. The team selected defensive lineman Jalen Carter from Georgia with their second first-round pick, 10th overall. Carter was considered one of the most disruptive defensive players in college football, and his ability to penetrate the backfield and disrupt the quarterback was something the Cardinals desperately needed. Carter’s addition is expected to help a defense that has struggled to generate pressure and create turnovers.
In addition to Johnson and Carter, the Cardinals added depth to both sides of the ball with selections in the later rounds. Arizona drafted cornerback Kelee Ringo from Georgia and linebacker Owen Pappoe from Auburn, two prospects who can contribute immediately and provide long-term value. Ringo, in particular, is a player who fits well into Gannon’s defensive scheme, offering length and physicality at the cornerback position. Pappoe adds much-needed speed and versatility to the linebacker corps, which has lacked playmaking ability in recent seasons.
Beyond the draft, the Cardinals made several key moves in free agency. The team’s top priority was to bring in experienced veterans who could help improve the roster while also providing leadership to a young team. Arizona signed veteran running back Damien Harris from the Buffalo Bills to complement James Conner in the backfield. Harris, known for his power running and ability to find the end zone, provides a solid option for the Cardinals’ ground game. This was a move that added depth and experience to an area of the team that needed it.
The team also made notable additions to the secondary, bringing in cornerback Cameron Dantzler from the Minnesota Vikings and safety Jimmie Ward from the San Francisco 49ers. Dantzler, a young corner with solid ball skills, will compete for a starting role, while Ward’s leadership and experience will be invaluable to the defensive backs group. The secondary was a major weakness for the Cardinals in 2024, and these additions are expected to improve the team’s ability to cover the pass and generate turnovers.
Another key addition to the team came in the form of offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, who was brought in to oversee the offense. Petzing’s previous experience as the Cleveland Browns’ passing game coordinator was seen as an asset, as he worked with quarterbacks like Baker Mayfield and Deshaun Watson. His ability to develop quarterbacks and build an offense around their strengths made him an appealing choice for Gannon and the Cardinals. Petzing’s offensive scheme will likely focus on quick passes, utilizing Murray’s mobility and ability to extend plays while also establishing a balanced running game. His arrival is another signal that the team is committed to maximizing Murray’s potential and surrounding him with the necessary tools to succeed.
Despite the positive changes and additions, there were some areas where the Cardinals did not make as many moves as many had hoped. While they addressed many of their needs, the team still has several holes to fill. Most notably, the wide receiver position remains a concern. DeAndre Hopkins is no longer with the team, and while they have promising young receivers like Marquise Brown, they still lack a true number-one target for Murray. The lack of a dynamic receiving threat could hinder the offense’s ability to compete at the highest level, especially in a division with strong defenses like the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams.
Additionally, while the Cardinals made strides to improve their defense, there is still room for growth. The defensive line has been bolstered by the addition of Carter, but the team could still use another pass rusher opposite of Carter to truly create a formidable front. The linebacking corps is also still a work in progress, with questions surrounding the depth and playmaking ability at the position.
All things considered, the Arizona Cardinals had a solid offseason, making key moves to address both immediate needs and long-term goals. The additions of Paris Johnson Jr. and Jalen Carter should have an immediate impact, while the team’s free-agent acquisitions provide depth and experience in key areas. The commitment to Kyler Murray, paired with the hiring of Drew Petzing as offensive coordinator, signals that the team is committed to maximizing the potential of their franchise quarterback. However, there are still areas of concern, particularly at wide receiver and in terms of overall depth on defense.
The question of whether this offseason has been successful ultimately comes down to how these moves translate onto the field. If Murray can stay healthy and develop under Gannon’s system, the Cardinals could surprise many in the NFC West. But if the young players don’t develop as expected, or if the team continues to struggle with consistency, it could be another long season in the desert.
In terms of an offseason report card grade, the Arizona Cardinals have earned a solid B. While there are areas that still need attention, the moves made were smart and strategic, showing a clear commitment to rebuilding the franchise the right way. If they continue to develop their young talent and make smart decisions in the coming seasons, the Cardinals could find themselves back in playoff contention sooner rather than later. But for now, it’s a step in the right direction.
