Arizona Cardinals using new offseason strategy with D-line in 2026
The Cardinals have thrown big resources at the D-line the last two years. They're doing it differently this offseason.
The Arizona Cardinals have done things a little differently this offseason when it comes to the defensive line. It has been a priority now for three consecutive offseasons. However, this offseason, at least through the first two weeks of free agency, the strategy is different.
2024-2025: Using big resources on the D-line The Cardinals chose to use heavy capital on the defensive line the last two offseasons. In 2024, they signed Justin Jones to a three-year contract averaging more than $10 million a year and Bilal Nichols to a three-year deal worth $7 million a year. Then, they used a first-round draft pick on Darius Robinson.
Last year, they signed Dalvin Tomlinson to a two-year deal worth more than $14 million per year and Calais Campbell for one season for $6 million. They drafted Walter Nolen in the first round. However, the result has been disappointing.
Jones played three games in two seasons before getting released. Nichols played in only 10 in two seasons and was released this offseason. Robinson and Nolen both suffered through injury-riddled rookie seasons, and Robinson hasn't done much statistically yet.