The Arizona Cardinals are depending on their linebacker.

The Arizona Cardinals, an NFL team with a rich history, have seen their fair share of highs and lows over the years. With the fast-paced, pass-heavy nature of modern NFL offenses, defensive units have become increasingly pivotal in a team’s success. One of the critical positions on the field that plays a crucial role in both stopping the run and defending against the pass is the linebacker. For the Arizona Cardinals, the linebacker position has been an area of both hope and challenge, where the right personnel can make all the difference in the team’s performance.

In this analysis, we will explore the importance of linebackers to the Arizona Cardinals’ defense, the historical context of the linebacker position on the team, the players who have made an impact, and what the team depends on from their linebackers going forward.

The Evolution of the Linebacker Position

Linebackers in the NFL are often described as the quarterbacks of the defense. They are responsible for directing the defense, calling out plays, and ensuring all teammates are in the correct alignment. Traditionally, linebackers have been categorized into three types: inside linebackers (ILBs), outside linebackers (OLBs), and hybrid linebackers who have a combination of both skills.

Over time, the role of the linebacker has evolved from being solely focused on stopping the run to becoming more involved in pass coverage, edge rushing, and even defending against screen passes. This evolution has been particularly noticeable in recent years as offenses have leaned more toward dynamic, multi-dimensional quarterbacks and pass-catching running backs.

The Arizona Cardinals, like many NFL teams, have had to adapt to these changes by investing in linebackers who are not just big, strong tacklers but also versatile athletes who can cover a range of responsibilities. With the rise of spread offenses and athletic quarterbacks, the role of the linebacker in Arizona’s defensive schemes has only grown more complex.

Key Responsibilities of Linebackers in Arizona’s Defensive Scheme

The Arizona Cardinals’ defense has undergone several transformations, but a few core responsibilities remain constant for their linebackers:

1. Run Defense: Linebackers are often tasked with stopping the opposing team’s running game. This involves diagnosing plays quickly, getting off blocks, and making tackles. Whether the running back is bursting through the middle or bouncing it to the outside, the linebacker’s job is to close the gaps and make stops.
2. Pass Coverage: In today’s NFL, linebackers are expected to cover tight ends, running backs, and even wide receivers. As offenses become more creative, linebackers must be quick and agile enough to defend the pass in space.
3. Blitzing and Pressure: Linebackers, particularly outside linebackers, often serve as edge rushers. With offensive linemen tending to focus on defensive ends and interior linemen, the linebacker can sometimes get a free shot at the quarterback. Effective blitzing from linebackers can disrupt an offense’s rhythm and force the quarterback into mistakes.
4. Leadership and Communication: Linebackers are typically the leaders of the defense. They are responsible for communicating defensive calls, reading the opposing offense’s formations, and adjusting the defense on the fly. This makes the linebacker position not just physically demanding but also mentally taxing.

In Arizona, these responsibilities have become even more critical as the team has adopted a more aggressive, blitz-heavy defensive strategy under recent coaching regimes.

Historical Context: The Linebacker Tradition in Arizona

The Arizona Cardinals have had their share of notable linebackers throughout their history, players who not only defined the position but also set the tone for the defense. While the team has had strong defensive lines and talented secondary players, linebackers have often been the heartbeat of the defense.

1. Pat Tillman: Perhaps the most iconic linebacker in Arizona Cardinals history is Pat Tillman. Tillman’s story is one of both athletic prowess and incredible sacrifice. After initially making a name for himself as a safety, Tillman moved to linebacker and played a crucial role in the Cardinals’ defense. He became a symbol of determination and courage, particularly after he made the selfless decision to leave the NFL to serve in the U.S. Army following the 9/11 attacks. His tragic death in Afghanistan further cemented his legacy, and his name is forever etched in the Cardinals’ history.
2. Karlos Dansby: Another standout linebacker for the Arizona Cardinals was Karlos Dansby. Known for his athleticism and leadership, Dansby was a key player during the team’s run to Super Bowl XLIII. His ability to cover the field, disrupt passing lanes, and stop the run made him one of the cornerstones of the Cardinals’ defense in the 2000s.
3. Daryl Washington: In more recent years, Daryl Washington was one of the most talented linebackers in Arizona. His sideline-to-sideline range and ability to cover in the passing game made him a unique talent in the NFL. Washington was a key figure for the Cardinals’ defense before his career was derailed by off-field issues. His absence created a significant void at the linebacker position, and the team has since struggled to find a player of his caliber.

Recent Challenges: Finding the Right Linebacker Core

In recent years, the Arizona Cardinals have struggled to maintain a stable and productive group of linebackers. Although they’ve made several attempts to fill the position through the draft and free agency, consistency has been an issue. The linebacker group, while talented, has often lacked the cohesion and leadership needed to elevate the defense as a whole.

1. Jordan Hicks: Acquired in free agency in 2019, Jordan Hicks was a significant addition to the linebacker corps. Hicks is a veteran presence who brings stability and leadership, but his performance has fluctuated, and he’s often had trouble staying healthy. When healthy, Hicks is a reliable tackler and a great communicator, but the inconsistency at the position remains a concern.
2. Isaiah Simmons: The Cardinals invested heavily in linebacker Isaiah Simmons, drafted eighth overall in 2020, to be a game-changing talent. Simmons is known for his versatility, able to line up at multiple positions across the defense. However, his development has been slower than expected, and he has yet to become the dominant presence that many anticipated. The hope for Simmons is that he can develop into a true star, capable of defending against the pass, rushing the quarterback, and stopping the run with equal proficiency.
3. Zaven Collins: Another high draft pick, Zaven Collins, was selected in the first round in 2021. Collins is a physical linebacker with the ability to impact both the running game and the passing game. However, like Simmons, Collins’ progress has been slower than the team had hoped. His ability to make a difference on the field will be crucial for the Cardinals moving forward.

The Future: What the Cardinals Need from Their Linebackers

As the Cardinals continue to build their defense, the linebacker position remains a critical area of focus. The team needs to find a consistent, playmaking group that can help elevate the defense as a whole. Here are a few things the Cardinals will depend on from their linebackers moving forward:

1. Consistency and Durability: Injuries have been a concern for many of the Cardinals’ linebackers in recent seasons. To build a successful defense, they need players who can stay on the field and perform at a high level week in and week out.
2. Leadership: As mentioned earlier, linebackers are often the leaders of the defense. With a relatively young defense, the Cardinals need experienced linebackers who can set the tone, both on and off the field, and help guide the team through challenging situations.
3. Versatility and Playmaking: The modern NFL demands linebackers who can do more than just stop the run. With the increasing importance of pass-catching running backs, tight ends, and mobile quarterbacks, the Cardinals need linebackers who can cover in space and make plays in the passing game. Versatile players like Simmons and Collins, if they develop, could become cornerstones of the defense.
4. Pass Rush and Disruption: The Cardinals have historically struggled with their pass rush, and linebackers often play a key role in getting pressure on the quarterback. Linebackers who can effectively blitz and disrupt the quarterback’s rhythm will be crucial to the success of the defense.

 The Importance of the Linebacker Position

In conclusion, the linebacker position is one of the most critical and versatile positions on the Arizona Cardinals’ defense. With their responsibilities ranging from run defense to pass coverage and leadership, linebackers have the power to shape the outcome of a game. Historically, the Cardinals have had several standout linebackers who have made significant contributions, but in recent years, finding consistent and dominant play at the position has been a challenge.

The team’s future success hinges on the development of their linebacker corps, particularly players like Isaiah Simmons and Zaven Collins. With the right combination of leadership, consistency, and versatility, the linebackers could be the driving force behind a more competitive and resilient defense for the Arizona Cardinals in the years to come. The team’s reliance on their linebackers to perform at a high level has never been greater, as they look to make strides toward playoff contention and, ultimately, a championship.