Which Arizona Cardinals Are Ready to Break Out Under Jonathan Gannon in the 2025 NFL Season?
As the Arizona Cardinals look ahead to the 2025 season, many are wondering which players will step up under Jonathan Gannon’s leadership. Will Kliff Kingsbury’s success with the Washington Commanders put added pressure on the Cards, particularly in comparison to their NFC rivals? Also, could defensive star Josh Sweat from the Philadelphia Eagles be a potential target for Nick Rallis’s defense?
Join Johnny Venerable, Bo Brack, and Shane Dawg as they break down these hot topics and more on Thursday’s PHNX Cardinals Podcast! Don’t miss it!
The Arizona Cardinals are gearing up for the 2025 NFL season with several key developments:
Potential Breakout Players
- B.J. Ojulari: After missing the 2024 season due to a torn ACL, Ojulari is anticipated to make a significant impact in 2025. In his rookie year, he ranked fourth among qualified rookies with a 13.4% pass-rush win rate, generating 20 pressures on only 161 pass-rushing snaps. His return is expected to bolster the Cardinals’ pass-rush capabilities.
Offseason Strategies
- Free Agency Focus: Pro Football Focus (PFF) recommends that the Cardinals pursue cornerback D.J. Reed as a free agent target. Despite the Cardinals having more pressing needs, specifically on defense, Reed is identified as a top-tier player who could provide significant coverage help. The Cardinals’ defense ranked poorly in various metrics in 2024, highlighting a need for improvement. Reed, who currently ranks sixth overall and first among cornerback free agents, may not have had a standout 2024 season but has been consistent over the past few years. With $82 million available in their budget, signing Reed could offer the Cardinals a valuable addition to their defense.
- Draft Prospects: In his 2025 NFL Mock Draft 1.0, Mel Kiper Jr. projects the Arizona Cardinals selecting Tyler Booker, a guard from Alabama, at the 16th pick. Given the potential departure of guards Will Hernandez and Evan Brown, the Cardinals need to strengthen their interior offensive line to maintain a strong run game. Booker is highlighted as a powerful and dependable guard who excels in both pass protection and run blocking.
Team Outlook
- Offseason Needs: The Cardinals are focusing on bold reinforcements and an infusion of high-end talent to enhance their roster for the upcoming season.
