In a move that adds a seasoned edge rusher and high-energy locker room presence to the Jacksonville Jaguars’ defense, former Arizona Cardinals linebacker Dennis Gardeck has signed a deal to continue his NFL journey in Duval County. Gardeck, known for his relentless motor, leadership, and special teams prowess, brings a unique combination of grit and experience to a Jaguars team looking to fortify its defensive unit and reassert itself in the AFC South.
Gardeck spent the first six seasons of his NFL career with the Cardinals after going undrafted in 2018 out of the University of Sioux Falls, a Division II school in South Dakota. His unlikely rise through the league has been one of perseverance, intensity, and blue-collar work ethic. He made a name for himself primarily as a special teams ace but eventually carved out a niche as a situational pass rusher, most notably during the 2020 season when he recorded seven sacks despite limited defensive snaps.
For Jacksonville, the addition of Gardeck is more than a depth signing. The Jaguars have made a concerted effort this offseason to add veterans with playoff experience and mental toughness. Gardeck fits the mold perfectly. While he may not be a Pro Bowl regular or a marquee free agent, his influence is felt in practice, in film rooms, and in the heat of competition. He’s the type of player who elevates those around him and holds teammates accountable.
In Arizona, Gardeck was beloved by fans for his underdog story and infectious energy. Coaches praised his preparation and dedication, while teammates leaned on him as a tone-setter. His effort never wavered, whether he was flying downfield on kickoff coverage or coming off the edge on third-and-long. That versatility and determination caught the eye of Jaguars general manager Trent Baalke, who has prioritized bringing in leaders that fit head coach Doug Pederson’s culture.
Jacksonville’s defense, though brimming with young talent like Josh Allen and Travon Walker, has lacked consistency. The team’s pass rush struggled at times in 2024, failing to close games and apply pressure in critical moments. Gardeck isn’t necessarily the solution to every defensive problem, but he does offer a level of accountability and fire that can’t be overstated. His presence will likely push the younger edge rushers to sharpen their preparation and performance.
Gardeck’s journey is one that resonates with football purists. Coming from a small college, he was never supposed to make it this far. Yet with every special teams rep, every hustle play, and every sack celebration, he proved doubters wrong. That kind of mentality is invaluable in a locker room full of players at various stages of their development. For rookies learning the ropes or veterans battling through slumps, Gardeck offers a blueprint for staying locked in and maximizing opportunities.
While the Jaguars have yet to release the full details of Gardeck’s contract, sources close to the situation say it’s a team-friendly deal with incentives based on playing time and production. This aligns with the Jaguars’ broader strategy of maintaining salary cap flexibility while building a competitive and sustainable roster. Gardeck is expected to contribute on special teams immediately and rotate in as a pass rusher in sub-packages.
It’s worth noting that Jacksonville’s front office has emphasized the importance of versatility in its acquisitions. Gardeck, despite being listed as a linebacker, has the flexibility to play multiple roles within the defensive scheme. He can line up as a 3-4 outside linebacker, blitz from the interior, or drop into coverage when needed. This versatility gives defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen more options when designing pressure packages and disguising looks.
Off the field, Gardeck is known for his humility and commitment to community service. During his time in Arizona, he was active in numerous charitable efforts, frequently participating in youth football camps, food drives, and mentorship programs. His presence in Jacksonville’s locker room will extend beyond the white lines, as the Jaguars continue to emphasize character and civic engagement as core tenets of the organization.
Fans in Duval should be excited about what Gardeck brings to the table. While he may not dominate the stat sheet every Sunday, his impact will be felt in myriad ways. Whether it’s igniting a spark on special teams, mentoring a young linebacker, or helping close out a tight game with a clutch sack, Gardeck adds real value. He’s the type of player who knows how to win the small battles that often determine outcomes over the course of a season.
This signing also represents a full-circle moment of sorts for Gardeck, who has long admired the kind of team-first, no-nonsense football culture that Jacksonville is cultivating under Pederson. The opportunity to be part of a franchise that values toughness, accountability, and community fit squarely within his ethos. As he begins this new chapter, the goal remains the same: contribute wherever needed, give 100% every snap, and help his team win.
Jacksonville fans have witnessed a rollercoaster of emotions over the past few seasons. From a deep playoff run to moments of frustration, the Jaguars are still searching for sustained excellence. Bringing in a player like Gardeck won’t solve everything overnight, but it is a move that signals a deeper commitment to improving the locker room culture and embracing players who embody the grind.
It’s easy to overlook players like Dennis Gardeck in the headlines that dominate the offseason—blockbuster trades, big-money signings, and first-round picks tend to grab the spotlight. But make no mistake: rosters are built with glue guys like him. Players who lead by example, who put in the dirty work, and who take pride in the details.
As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on how the Jaguars mold their new-look defense. Gardeck’s role may fluctuate depending on scheme and opponent, but his effort won’t. He’s already making an impression during voluntary workouts, and the coaching staff has praised his early integration into the team’s system.
In a league where careers can be fleeting and opportunities rare, Dennis Gardeck’s move to Jacksonville is a reminder that perseverance still matters. Hard work, consistency, and a relentless attitude can still open doors—even when the odds seem stacked against you. For the Jaguars, it’s a low-risk, high-reward move that could pay dividends both on the field and in the locker room.
So as the season inches closer and Duval gets ready to rally behind its team once again, keep an eye on No. 45 flying down the field, celebrating with teammates, and bringing that trademark intensity. From the desert to Duval, Dennis Gardeck is ready to write the next chapter of his NFL story—and Jacksonville might be just the perfect place for it.
