The Arizona Cardinals’ 2025 season was a disaster, finishing 3-14 and firing head coach Jonathan Gannon. Now, the franchise faces a defining offseason, with the future of Kyler Murray at the center of their rebuild. With $9 million in cap space, key free agents, and the No. 3 pick in the draft, every decision will shape the team’s trajectory for years to come.
The Collapse of 2025: What Went Wrong
The Cardinals entered 2025 with sleeper potential, boasting a chaotic but effective defensive scheme and the promise of a Kyler Murray-Marvin Harrison Jr. connection. However, the season unraveled spectacularly. Arizona’s -55 point differential in the fourth quarter was the worst in the league, epitomized by their Week 5 collapse against the Titans. A 2-0 start quickly devolved into a 1-14 finish, with injuries ravaging both sides of the ball.
Offensively, the unit never found consistency. Murray’s injuries sidelined him early, and Jacoby Brissett’s limitations became glaring. The Cardinals’ rushing success rate plummeted from 5th in 2024 to 18th in 2025, while the defense, despite bright spots like rookie cornerback Denzel Burke and free-agent signing Josh Sweat, couldn’t overcome the injury bug. The firing of Jonathan Gannon after three sub-.500 seasons was the inevitable conclusion to a frustrating campaign.
The Kyler Murray Question: Trade or Rebuild?
Murray’s future is the elephant in the room. His contract, structured mostly as tradable salary, presents a $35 million cap savings if dealt before June 1. While his 2025 EPA per play matched elite QBs like Jalen Hurts and Lamar Jackson (0.05), his lack of high-ceiling performances left much to be desired. The Cardinals must decide: Is Murray part of the solution, or is it time to reset?
If Arizona moves on, the No. 3 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft becomes their most valuable asset. Quarterback-needy teams will be circling, and the Cardinals could either draft Murray’s successor or trade down to accumulate picks. The stakes couldn’t be higher.
Cap Space and Key Cuts: Freeing Up Resources
With just $9 million in effective cap space (18th in the league), the Cardinals need to make tough decisions. Here are the key moves:
- Kyler Murray: Trading him frees up $35 million, but leaves a gaping hole at QB.
- Budda Baker: A trade could net $13 million, but his leadership is invaluable.
- Dalvin Tomlinson & James Conner: Cutting both would save nearly $17.5 million.
These decisions will define whether Arizona opts for a full rebuild or a quick turnaround.
Free Agency: Who Stays, Who Goes?
The Cardinals have several key free agents to address:
- S Jalen Thompson: A versatile defender who thrived in Arizona’s three-safety schemes. His retention is critical for continuity.
- IDL Calais Campbell: At 39, Campbell defied age with 6.5 sacks. His leadership and production make him a priority.
- OL Jonah Williams & Will Hernandez: Both struggled with injuries and performance in 2025, but their experience is valuable.
Retaining Thompson and Campbell should be the focus, while the offensive line may need an overhaul.
Draft Strategy: Building for the Future
With the No. 3 pick, the Cardinals have options. If they move on from Murray, a quarterback like Caleb Williams or Drake Maye could be the pick. Alternatively, trading down to accumulate assets might be the smarter play.
Beyond QB, the Cardinals must address:
- Offensive Line: Outside of Paris Johnson and Hjalte Froholdt, upgrades are needed across the board.
- Linebacker: A perennial weakness, Arizona’s best LB ranked 39th in yards allowed per coverage snap.
- Defensive Depth: Reinforcements are needed to support Burke and Sweat.
Ohio State LB Arvell Reese is a perfect fit—a dynamic playmaker who can rush the passer and cover.
Fantasy and Betting Implications
The Cardinals’ offensive ecosystem is due for a complete overhaul. Jacoby Brissett’s high-volume passing (45.7 dropbacks per game) was unsustainable, and the team’s fantasy production was a mirage. A new QB and scheme could reshape the offense entirely.
For bettors, Arizona’s late-season collapse (nine-game losing streak, 1-8 ATS) is a cautionary tale. Until the Cardinals prove they can finish games, fading them in close contests might be the smart play.
The Road Ahead
The Cardinals’ 2026 offseason is a defining moment. With the right moves—whether trading Murray, nailing the draft, or retaining key free agents—they can set the stage for a quick rebound. But missteps could prolong the rebuilding process.
For fans, the message is clear: Patience is required. The Cardinals aren’t one player away—they need a cultural reset. The decisions made in the coming months will determine whether Arizona becomes a contender or remains in the NFC West cellar.
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