Why is this Arizona Cardinals defensive star sitting out of OTAs?
Arizona Cardinals linebacker Josh Sweat (10) works out during the team's practice at State Farm Stadium on July 29, 2025. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images GLENDALE – The Arizona Cardinals knew exactly what they were buying when they signed linebacker Josh Sweat in 2025. They weren’t just adding a productive pass rusher.
They were investing in leadership, proven playoff experience, and familiarity with former head coach Jonathan Gannon’s defensive system. Amid all the changes, Sweat has been a no-show during the Cardinals’ OTA, raising a lot of questions about his future. Josh Sweat speaks to members of the media at the Arizona Cardinals Training Center in Tempe on March 13, 2025.
© Diannie Chavez/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images Josh Sweat’s absence from voluntary OTAs has created quiet tension around the organization, not because veterans skipping workouts is uncommon, but because timing changes perception. Arizona remains a roster in transition, and when one of the franchise’s highest-paid defenders is away from the facility, fans naturally begin to connect the dots. The concern is less about attendance and more about urgency.
Jul 24, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals linebacker Josh Sweat (10) during training camp at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Sweat thrived under Gannon in Philadelphia, and the expectation was that Arizona could accelerate its rebuild by bringing in players already aligned with the coaching philosophy.
On paper, the move made perfect sense. But rebuilding projects are rarely as clean as offseason press conferences make them sound. Now with a new head coach in Mike LaFleur, Josh Sweat will have a whole new system to try to thrive in.