Reviewing the most recent free agent signings made by the Arizona Cardinals
Zay Jones and Baron Browning aim to bolster both the offensive and defensive depth. Zay Jones, in particular, is a crucial addition to the wide receiver corps, offering a strong, consistent target for Kyler Murray. His experience and ability to stretch the field complement the existing talents of DeAndre Hopkins and Marquise Brown, giving the Cardinals a more diversified passing attack. Baron Browning, on the other hand, strengthens the pass rush, which is an area the Cardinals have struggled with in recent seasons. Browning’s athleticism and upside as a young edge rusher align well with the team’s need for a more disruptive presence on defense.
In addition to these key signings, the Cardinals were active in securing depth across several positions. The signing of Joey Blount and Akeem Davis-Gaither brings added depth to the secondary and linebacking corps. Both players bring flexibility in their ability to contribute in multiple defensive roles. Blount, a safety with strong special teams contributions, and Davis-Gaither, a versatile linebacker, add value in both the base defense and on special teams units. These moves not only improve the starting lineup but also ensure that the Cardinals have a deep and competitive roster for the grind of the NFL season.
One of the most intriguing re-signings was that of L.J. Collier, who, after spending a year with the Cardinals, was retained on a one-year deal. Collier’s familiarity with the team’s defensive schemes is valuable, and his role as a rotational piece on the defensive line is expected to increase in importance. With the team aiming to enhance their defensive front, Collier’s presence adds to the depth in the trenches, a critical area of the game where the Cardinals will need to improve if they want to challenge for a playoff spot in 2025.
Furthermore, the re-signing of Aaron Brewer as the long snapper is often an overlooked but essential move. Brewer’s reliability in his specialized role ensures that the team’s special teams unit will maintain its consistency. Special teams plays a huge role in determining the outcome of close games, and having a dependable long snapper for field goals and punts gives the Cardinals one less position to worry about.
While some departures, like Naquan Jones, Roy Lopez, and Khyiris Tonga, could create gaps in the defensive line rotation, the team’s aggressive approach to free agency and the draft suggests they have a plan to address these needs. With the departures of these players, the Cardinals now have the opportunity to evaluate and perhaps bring in younger, more dynamic defensive linemen to fill the void. It’s clear that the team values competition and depth across all areas, ensuring that no position is left unaddressed.
The Impact on Team Needs and Scheme
These free-agent signings are reflective of the team’s evolving strategy under head coach Jonathan Gannon. As Gannon has implemented his defensive scheme since arriving from Philadelphia, there’s a clear emphasis on adding players who can execute his aggressive defensive philosophy, particularly in terms of rushing the quarterback. The acquisition of Josh Sweat, who had a standout year with the Eagles, is a prime example of this strategic shift. Sweat is known for his explosive pass rush, and his ability to disrupt the opposing quarterback is exactly what the Cardinals need to take pressure off their secondary.
On offense, the team has focused on surrounding Kyler Murray with better protection and more playmaking options. The signing of Evan Brown strengthens the interior of the offensive line, which had been a weak point in previous seasons. By ensuring the line can better protect Murray, the team has prioritized keeping their franchise quarterback healthy, which will be crucial to their success in 2025. Moreover, Zay Jones offers an additional target in the passing game, ensuring that the team won’t rely too heavily on the likes of Hopkins and Brown. By diversifying the receiving threats, the Cardinals can keep opposing defenses guessing, improving their offensive balance and efficiency.
Long-Term Outlook and Future Moves
Looking ahead, these signings also indicate a broader strategy of building a balanced roster that can compete over the next several years. Josh Sweat’s contract, for instance, signals that the team is committed to investing in foundational pieces. Given the length of his contract, it’s clear the Cardinals see him as part of their long-term plans to create a dominant defensive unit. This strategy, focused on both near-term improvements and long-term sustainability, could lay the groundwork for a competitive team capable of contending for titles within the next few seasons.
In addition, Jacoby Brissett’s signing offers insight into the team’s backup quarterback situation. By adding a veteran who has started 53 games, the Cardinals are ensuring that they have a reliable option should Murray face another injury. This will allow the team to continue competing even if Murray misses significant time. With Brissett in place, the team doesn’t have to rush Murray back too soon, giving him the proper time to recover fully.
The 2025 NFL Draft will also play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Cardinals. While free agency has allowed them to address immediate needs, the draft will be an opportunity to find young talent to continue building the roster. Whether it’s adding more help along the offensive or defensive line, acquiring a future star in the secondary, or finding a complement to Murray in the backfield, the draft will be the next step in solidifying the team’s foundation for the years to come.
The Arizona Cardinals have been active in free agency, making key moves to strengthen their roster across both sides of the ball. From the signing of pass rusher Josh Sweat to the acquisition of depth players like Zay Jones and Akeem Davis-Gaither, the team has worked hard to address both immediate needs and long-term goals. The balance of retaining key players like Kelvin Beachum and L.J. Collier while adding fresh talent shows a clear vision for the future.
As head coach Jonathan Gannon continues to implement his philosophy, these moves indicate the team’s commitment to building a competitive roster capable of making a deep playoff run. With further opportunities to improve through the draft, the Cardinals are positioning themselves to be a team to watch in 2025 and beyond. With continued focus on key areas like the pass rush, offensive line, and quarterback play, the Cardinals are aiming for a balanced, competitive team in what is sure to be a highly competitive NFC West division. The next steps for the Cardinals will be to continue their progression under Gannon’s leadership, building on the momentum of these recent signings and preparing for a pivotal 2025 season.