RSS Cards Team Notes

[Arizona Cardinals]

Are pressures the new sacks?

Total tackles, interceptions, and sacks are the hallmarks of any defense. There are other parameters, such as total yards allowed either in the run game or through the air, the number of batted passes, and tackles for loss. But the aforementioned stats are considered the Big-3.

Or, are they?

There is another metric that is fast becoming a major stat: pressures.

Pressures are used to evaluate how effective a defense is on passing downs. But this stat differs in scope and what it actually measures.

Registering sacks, this has always been a definitive moment in any game, similar to a hard dunk in a basketball contest. The game suddenly comes crashing down as the home crowd goes berserk, or the visiting stadium goes eerily quiet. A sack changes the offense’s current drive and not only takes away a useful down, but adds yardage to the grand total needed to gain another set of downs.

Sometimes, a sack will result in an injury to either the opposing team’s quarterback or to the blocker who attempted to stretch a hamstring or groin muscle trying to reach farther than his body is designed to achieve. And in today’s game, armed with various penalties designed to protect signalcallers, the play can go against the defense.

Sacks are exact. Sacks are easy to interpret. Sacks are straightforward to decide upon in the stat column for those keeping up with the game’s data. They are a specific form of pressure, and either the quarterback is knocked down on the ground or he’s not.

Other pass rushing stats, such as QB hits, knockdowns, and hurries, have their own agenda.

A hurry is when a quarterback is forced to throw the ball before he is ready. A knockdown describes when the ball has left the quarterback’s hand, and yet he is hit and falls to the turf. A QB hit is when a defender makes contact with the quarterback, but does not bring him but usually disrupts the QB’s actions.

Pressures are defined as all of the above.

A defensive player can achieve any of the above stats and also receive a “pressure” in his game numbers. Essentially, a single “pressure” is a defensive act that will interrupt the quarterback’s ability to make a clean throw.

Is a sack also a pressure? You bet.

Now, in a game, the word “pressure” can also have another meaning. Defenders constantly “apply pressure” to their opponent’s offense, especially during a passing down. But this definition of pressure is not the same as the statistic of “pressure.”

For those of you who are learning the English language, yes, the King’s English is full of quadruple meanings. Just try to keep up. You can read a book and then have read it with a cover that is red, and now you are well-read.

Forever, it seems, sacks have been considered one of the most important defensive statistics. Players can have nominal total tackles and other assorted stats, such as forced fumbles, but if the defender has upwards of 15 sacks, he is considered a major participant for that defense. Many athletes who get close to 20 sacks suddenly receive huge contract extensions in order to retain his services. He may not be any good at the other aspects, such as run support, pass coverage, recovering or causing fumbles, but as long as his sack numbers jump, he is consistently discussed in the media.

Pressures are a broader category encircling any instance where a defender employs significant pressure on the quarterback before the pass is thrown.

The question is, has “pressures” surpassed “sacks” as the definitive defensive indicator?

Every NFL defense has its particular method to apply pressure on its opponent’s offense. This is done with a normal amount of pass rushers, sending extra players via a blitz, or by implementing stunts.

The NFL is a passing league. While it is true teams have to be able to run, the facts are that offenses are geared more towards the passing element than trying to cram the ball down anybody’s throat play after play. How many clubs today actually claim a ground-and-pound attack?

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Did you know?
Ground-and-Pound
A way to describe a team that runs the ball on most downs with great success. However, its origins offer the opposite meaning. In 1989, San Francisco 49ers cornerback Tim McKyer was being interviewed by the San Francisco Chronicle when McKyer thought the Chicago Bears’ run-first offensive scheme was horrible and one-dimensional. He said, “They don’t have a complicated offense. The Bears just try to ground-and-pound.”

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Consistent pressure is key to disrupting offenses. Creating “pressure” is a more constant and replicable facet of playing defense.

While the stat of “sacks” indicates how many times a defense has actually gotten to the quarterback, the stat of “pressures” is more revealing of a team’s pass-rushing ability overall.

Former New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick once stated:

“Pressures correlate more with good defense than sacks do.” They just might mean that a defense doesn’t necessarily need to sack a quarterback often in order to achieve a successful pass rush, as long as defenders are getting close to sacking him continually.

There are teams like the Kansas City Chiefs that live and die with blitz packages. Other defensive coordinators live on the opposite side of this spectrum. They believe that a defense can generate pressure without sending extra guys if you have the right athletes in their system.

In the Super Bowl this past February, the Philadelphia Eagles presented a standard pass rush without sending extra players, and it was a defining aspect of their lopsided win.

But what do the numbers say from last season?

NFL Pressure Rate Leaders: Four or Fewer Pass Rushers​

• Denver Broncos 39.3%
• Cleveland Browns 38.2%
• Seattle Seahawks 36.6%
• Philadelphia Eagles 35.5%
• Detroit Lions 35.2%

NFL Pressure Rate Leaders: Stunts​

• Los Angeles Rams 51.4%
• Cleveland Browns 48.6%
• Minnesota Vikings 48.6%
• Chicago Bears 48.6%
• Green Bay Packers 46.7%

NFL Pressure Rate Leaders: Blitzes​

• Green Bay Packers 48.3%
• New York Jets 48.2%
• Kansas City Chiefs 45.2%
• Cleveland Browns 44.8%
• Indianapolis Colts 44.7%

As you can see, sometimes a single presence of one dominant player, like Cleveland’s Myles Garrett, can change these metrics and highlight just how effective the defense is at confusing offensive linemen and obliging quarterbacks to speed up their decision-making process.

Sacks are certainly important perimeters for every defense. But have pressures become the new determinant of success? This tendency is set to continue.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/arizona-cardinals-news/84377/are-pressures-the-new-sacks

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals sign veteran backup quarterback Jeff Driskel to practice squad

Today we got the answer to the question of who the next quarterback in the group is.

Next up for the Cardinals: What will the franchise do about a backup QB?

The Arizona Cardinals signed Jeff Driskel to their practice squad today.

From the team:

The Arizona Cardinals Football Club today announced that the team has signed quarterback Jeff Driskel to the practice squad. The signing took place today at the Dignity Health Arizona Cardinals Training Center in Tempe, AZ.

Driskel (6-4, 231) returns to the Cardinals after spending time on Arizona’s practice squad in 2023. He is a seven-year NFL veteran who has played in 25 games (12 starts) with Washington (2024), Cleveland (2023), Houston (2021-22), Denver (2020), Detroit (2019) and Cincinnati (2018). In his career, the 32-year old Driskel has completed 229-of-391 pass attempts for 2,394 yards and 16 TDs. He has also rushed for 417 yards and three TDs on 80 carries and has two receptions for 10 yards. Driskel was originally drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the sixth-round (207th overall) of the 2016 NFL Draft out of Louisiana Tech.

Driskel will wear jersey #15.

The Cardinals new quarterback room is… Interesting. We will hope that Jacoby Brissett can stay healthy moving forward.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...up-quarterback-jeff-driskel-to-practice-squad

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Cardinals get troubling news with the injury front

The Arizona Cardinals face the Seattle Seahawks this Sunday. Seattle is currently leading the NFC West Division with a 6-2-0 record. The Cardinals are at a critical stage of the schedule where any losses make any playoff aspirations get that much further away. Sitting at 2-5-0 and dead last in the division, it could be too late already.

RELATED: WEEK 10 INJURY REPORT

Or maybe not. But it must begin with beating the Seahawks, who are a very good ballclub.

Last week’s contest against the Dallas Cowboys, the Cardinals got some valuable help with the first appearance of first-round draft pick Walter Nolen, who had a fine debut. The team also got the services of Garrett Williams back from injury, as the team became a bit healthier.

This week, the news is troubling as Arizona will need every capable body in their tool box to knock off the division leader, and on the road.

Word from the Cardinals now states that three players will not make the Seattle trip: S Max Melton, CB Will Johnson, and LB Mack Wilson. All three are not only starters on the defense, but key components.

Wilson had a tremendous game against Dallas. He tied for the most total tackles with seven, and was everywhere. He did drop a sure interception, but had great run support.

In the third quarter, Dallas receiver CeeDee Lamb caught a 10-yard pass with Wilson the only man left and a great open field tackle. On the very next play, it was Wilson who nailed RB Javonte Williams for no gain. He missed a tackle with 17 seconds before the final period began. Left the game with a rib injury.

Melton left the game in the second quarter and was replaced by rookie Denzel Burke who had played sparingly on defense all year but was used on special teams in punt and kickoff coverage. Burke responded well and was a critical defender in this game. In the third quarter, he made a great open-field tackle on WR KaVontae Turpin for a six-yard gain on a third-and-14. Who can forget when Burke poked that pass away from Lamb on that fourth-down play in the Red Zone that may have saved the game?

Melton is in concussion protocol, which takes nine days.

He saved a touchdown when Williams went up the middle for 19 yards as Burke got a hand on his foot to trip him up, or he would have scored. And as the game was winding down, Cowboys QB Dak Prescott heaved a pass as far as he could throw it into the waiting arms of Burke to seal the game.

Johnson is proving he is one of the league’s best young cornerbacks. But so far, he can’t remain healthy. Against Dallas, he was assigned the Cowboys’ other really good receiver in George Pickens, who had just one catch in the first half. Johnson is listed with back/hip injuries.

Burke will start in Melton’s spot while fellow rookie Cody Simon will fill in for Wilson. Kei-Trel Clark is scheduled to replace Johnson.

Also, it was thought that LB B.J. Ojulari (knee) would be available against Seattle, but it was confirmed that he will remain on the PUP list. CB Kei’Trel Clark (ankle) was also limited on Thursday. S Budda Baker (hamstring) and S Kitan Crawford (hamstring) were both limited for the second consecutive practice. RG Will Hernandez (knee) was also limited.

OL Kelvin Beachum (NIR-Rest) – DNP
CB Max Melton (Concussion) – DNP
LB Mack Wilson Sr. (Ribs) – DNP
S Budda Baker (Hamstring) – Limited
CB Kei’Trel Clark (Ankle) – Limited
S Kitan Crawford (Hamstring)
OL Will Hernandez (Knee) – Limited
CB Will Johnson (Back/Hip) – Limited
WR Zay Jones (Knee) – Limited
LB BJ Ojulari (Knee) – Limited
WR Xavier Weaver (Ankle) – Limited

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...ry-report-will-johnson-max-melton-mack-wilson

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

6 key things to know about Cardinals’ Week 10 opponent: Seahawks

After defeating the Cowboys in primetime, the Cardinals will travel to Seattle to face the Seahawks, where they will look to even out the two-game series after losing to them back in Week 4.

Ahead of Week 10, here are six key things to know about Arizona’s opponent:

Where things stand​

At 6-2, the Seahawks are in a three-way tie with the Eagles and Buccaneers for the top record in the NFC. Seattle is on a three-game winning streak, with their most recent win coming against the Commanders last Sunday night by the score of 38-14.

Big signing is paying dividends​

After signing his three-year, $100.5 million contract this past offseason, quarterback Sam Darnold has been very good in his first season with the Seahawks. Darnold ranks in the top ten in various categories, including being No. 1 in yards per completion (13.4) and yards per attempt (9.6). Darnold has passed for 2,084 yards (7th in the NFL) and touchdowns (9th). He has benefited from his offensive line, which has been proficient in keeping him upright and giving him enough time to throw.

Centerpiece of the passing offense​

Wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba is enjoying a breakout season and is currently the NFL’s leader in receiving yards (948). Smith-Njigba has been a problem for opposing secondaries, posting 100 or more receiving yards in six of his eight games played.

New target for Sam Darnold​

To complement Smith-Njigba, the Seahawks acquired wide receiver Rashid Shaheed from the Saints in exchange for fourth and fifth-round draft picks. Shaheed previously played under offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak in 2024 and is already familiar with the system. He brings speed and ability to stretch the field to the positional room, which will benefit Darnold, who has proven to be an efficient deep passer.

Inconsistent running game​

Despite a commitment to running the football, the results in that department have been uninspiring. The Seahawks have run the ball more than any other team in the league (226 attempts), but rank 24th in rushing yards per game (103.9) and are tied for 26th in yards per carry (3.7).

Dominant defense​

Head coach Mike McDonald has the Seahawks playing stiff defense, ranking near the top across multiple categories. In six of their eight games, Seattle held their opponent to 20 or fewer points. The Seahawks rank second in the league in rushing yards allowed per game (85.9) and have allowed a league-low 3.3 yards per rush attempt. Additionally, they have generated consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, ranking third in the league in sacks (27) and have multiple players with more than 20 pressures, with defensive lineman Leonard Williams leading the pack with 30.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...now-about-cardinals-week-10-opponent-seahawks

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Cardinals-Cowboys reactions: Jacoby Brissett, Walter Nolen, the offense and the defense

Happy Saturday one and all.

The Arizona Cardinals snapped a five-game losing streak and are looking to get their first win in the division in the 2025.

They will have to do so on the road against a very good Seattle Seahawks team, but more on that later.

First, Jess and I wanted to look back at the Cardinals win over the Dallas Cowboys.

Before the move to put Murray on IR, Jess and I discussed the decision to start Jacoby Brissett, and from there we had a great episode.

Enjoy the show with the embedded player above or by subscribing to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or your favorite podcast platform, so you never miss a show. Make sure as well to give it a five-star rating!

In this episode we talked about:

• (1:00) The decision to go with Brissett this week and his play against the Cowboys
• (22:40) The offensive play against the Cowboys outside of Brissett
• (30:28) Walter Nolen’s NFL debut
• (36:09) How the Cardinals did defensively

View Link

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...sett-walter-nolen-the-offense-and-the-defense

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Let’s be honest. Can the Cardinals beat the Seahawks?

Being down on the Arizona Cardinals is pretty easy. Throwing around negativity is expected and well-deserved. We get that. All of us who are Cardinals fans are really used to being used and abused.

RELATED: ARE CARDINAL FANS MORE CONFIDENT WITH BRISSETT?

But we have something that only 31 other cities in America have: an NFL team. We love our team even though they might not love us back. It is us who live and die with every season. The players are well-compensated for playing a game that most of us as kids played in the backyard, with the pecan tree being the goal line on one end, and the clothesline pole being the other goal line.

Now, here we are at the halfway point of the 2025 season. If every game ended with six minutes to play, the Cardinals would be at least 7-1-0.

That one loss would have been to the Seattle Seahawks. Well, maybe. Arizona was losing 20-6, fought, and was suddenly tied at 20-20 with 28 seconds remaining. And since the Seahawks QB was Patrick Mahomes or Tom Brady or Joe Montana, it appeared to be a cinch that the game was headed to overtime. And who knows if the Cardinals would have continued that hot streak with the offense going into the fourth quarter.

This was the first game for the new “Rivalries” program alternate uniform.

Yes, all of this narrative is strictly homer stuff. And everyone realizes that as we get older and stuff starts going wrong, like losing teeth, if that tooth is placed under the pillow, the only thing that happens is trying to get a blood stain out of the fitted sheet.

Nobody is talking playoff scenarios. There isn’t any discussion about how the Cardinals can win the division. It’s just one football game. And we, as fans, want our team to win it. On the road played in their house. That’s all.

Go team go. Rah, rah, rah.

Seattle versus Arizona 2.0 occurs this weekend in the Sunday afternoon slot. The game will be played up north, where it rains or is misty quite a bit. The locals are used to it and are more indoorsy. Fans of the visitors are more inclined to sit out on the back porch and soak up the sun as meat and corn are going on the grill, while trying to get rid of last weekend’s 12-pack or trying out the newest flavor of Mountain Dew.

The Seahawks are 6-2-0. They are tied for the lead in the NFC West Division with the Los Angeles Rams. Both of these teams have stingy defenses. They also have good offensive lines and elite receivers, as well as qualified quarterbacks.

But the Cardinals are a different team from the first game against Seattle. There are a few new bodies back from injury land, and this offense just feels different. It feels capable. It feels like it can finish drives and score points.

The sample size with Jacoby Brissett under center is just three games, but points are up, and turnovers are down.

And this offense shows confidence. Right after Dallas had blocked that punt because a linebacker was stationed as a guard to block a much bigger defensive end and was run over, the offense took the ball on an 11-play drive for 74 yards and scored a touchdown of their own.

That hasn’t been happening all year.

In addition to Arizona, Seattle has beaten some good teams and defeated the ones they should beat. They have won against the Pittsburgh Steelers (who are currently leading the AFC North Division), the New Orleans Saints (who are a trash team), and several wannabe clubs: Jacksonville Jaguars, Houston Texans, and the Washington Commanders.

That is a pretty good resume, and it allows us to get a good feel for where this Seahawks team is. As far as unies go in this second game, Seattle will don their familiar college navy uniform with the navy jerseys and pants. The Cardinals are set to wear their all-white road combo.

Everyone is watching. Call a good game OC. Please

— Chase Black (@ChaseBl60134089) September 25, 2025

What will it take for Arizona to win this game? Everyone knows this is a tall ask. After all, Seattle has won the last eight games facing Arizona, and nine of the last 10 dating back to 2020.

Can they beat a very good team like the Seahawks? Or is that asking too much?

Take away the Seahawks’ passing game​

Seattle’s receiver group is pretty banged up. Dareke Young and Jake Bobo are still out. Cooper Kupp has been trying to recover from an injury and is limited. So is Tory Horton.

This plays well into the Cardinals’ pass defense. The Cowboys were the #2 passing team in the league, and Arizona throttled their best receiving threats all game. Both CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens rank high in receptions and total yards, yet they only got 85 and 79 yards, respectively. TE Jake Ferguson is a short-yardage demon, yet was a non-factor. So, this pass defense can bring it.

Seattle comes into the game with the #4 passing offense and has scored the fifth most points. Yeah, well, Arizona just beat the #2 passing attack on the road, which had scored the second most points, and in fact, scored 40+ points at home four times this season. How did that work out?

Now comes news that CB Will Johnson will not play. The new gem in S Denzel Burke will start because Max Melton remains in concussion protocol. That is two starters in the defensive backfield that will be out.

The entire receiving experience sits on the shoulders of Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who leads the league in yards with 948. He is a beast and is quick. He is fifth in receptions (58).

The Cardinals need to make him a non-factor by keeping tight coverage on him without these eight-to-nine-yard cushions and bringing a safety over the top on every route. Keep it tight all game and place hands on him coming off the line every single play. He is a skinny guy (197 pounds), so rough him up a bit and be very physical.

He also excels in yards after contact (YAC) production. Currently, he leads the league in this category with 235 out of his 948 yards being after he has secured the football.

At the trade deadline, the Seahawks got WR Rashid Shaheed from the New Orleans Saints. He adds speed and a big-play threat.

The Seahawks are bottom third in rushing. Take away Smith-Njigba and the ailing passing attack, and Seattle will have issues on offense.

The offensive line must have a perfect day ​

Not going to lie, the Seahawks have a tremendous pass rush. They have the fifth most sacks this season with 27. Six of those were against Arizona in their first matchup. Their defense is middle of the pack as far as total tackles go, but there is no denying they are coming for the quarterback.

Now, Kyler Murray was the signalcaller for the first contest. This time around, it is Brissett. What is the difference? Murray will leave the pocket very quickly if it begins to implode. Brissett is more patient. He will stand there as the walls are falling in and still get off a throw.

Will this method eliminate getting large sack numbers? Not against this defense.

But when a QB leaves a protected area, there is no way he can see where trouble is. Sometimes they run right into a guy who was safely blocked, and now the QB has run right into him.

Seattle plays a 3-4, with RDE Leonard Williams a problem child, and LB Uchenna Nwosu a beast on blitz packages. LDE Jarran Reed needs 0.5 sack to pass Frank Clark for 10th-place on Seattle’s all-time sacks list with 35.5.

Dallas had a tremendous pass rush, getting to Brissett five times. That cannot happen in this game. Large sack numbers will destroy the offense. The offensive line must have a banner day. If this group fails, the outcome won’t even be close.

RG Will Hernandez was limited this week with a knee injury.

Leverage the passing game​

The Cardinals are having a difficult time running the ball since their top two backs have been injured. Now, it’s running back by committee, and that has experienced mixed results. Both Bam Knight and Emari Demercado will have a decent run followed by several for minimal gain.

Plus, the Seattle defense is ranked #2 in rush defense. So, if the Arizona RBs are struggling, and the Seahawks’ defensive line is awesome, why even put that much emphasis on the run game?

Again, it will be on the shoulders of the offensive line, but the Cardinals will need to throw the ball a lot in this game.

Can you see the difference in Brissett’s passing than that of Kyler Murray? Brissett will take the hit in order to get a good throw downfield. His passes have purpose. He isn’t just throwing the ball because that is what his description is.

Against Dallas, WR Marv Harrison came alive with seven catches. In the first half, he had half the offensive output and secured several double-digit yardage catches. TE Trey McBride is just waiting to be used more. Toss it to him 20 times and just watch the production. His YAC ability is a huge plus.

Right now, the Seahawks’ defensive secondary is beaten up. CB Josh Jobe is in concussion protocol.

Brissett will need to throw more long passes on occasion to stretch the field and set up the intermediate throws that were successful against Dallas and didn’t take as much time to develop. Short to mid-range passes will help the offensive line not have to maintain a clean pocket longer.

Use Michael Wilson and Greg Dortch on occasion, and if the pass rush becomes too severe, leave a back in for more blocking or insert a tight end like Elijah Higgins or even a backup guard.

If the Cardinals’ offensive line can keep out the Seahawks’ pass rush, Brissett can pick apart a very weak defensive secondary all game long.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...be-honest-can-the-cardinals-beat-the-seahawks

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Cardinals-Seahawks first half open thread

This will be a big one.

The Arizona Cardinals need this one. The playoffs are a distant hope at this point, but at some point you have to make some hay in the division, and show you can compete.

So, can they compete? Will they be not just competitive, but also get closer to winning a division game?

Let’s hope this is the week.

Week 10: Arizona Cardinals (3-5) vs Seattle Seahawks (6-2)​

Date: Sunday, November 9, 2025
Time: 2:05 p.m. AT
Location: State Farm Stadium — Glendale, AZ
National TV: CBS (Channel 5 locally)
National online streaming: NFL+, Paramount Plus Streaming
TV announcers: Kevin Harlan (play-by-play) Trent Green (analyst) Melanie Collins (sideline)
Radio: Arizona Sports 98.7 FM
Radio announcers: Dave Pasch (play-by-play), A.Q. Shipley (analyst) and Paul Calvisi (sideline)
Spanish Radio: Fuego Radio 106.7 FM
Spanish Radio announcers: Luis Hernandez (play-by-play) and Irving Villanueva (analyst)
Betting line: Cardinals +6.5 per FanDuel Sportsbook

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/game-day-threads/84556/cardinals-seahawks-first-half-open-thread

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals are sleepless in Seattle loss

The Arizona Cardinals are the worst team in the NFC West and it’s not particularly close.

When the Arizona Cardinals last played the Seattle Seahawks they were competitive.

A couple weeks, a quarterback change and some duct tape later and the Arizona Cardinals are embarrassed 44-22.

It was not a close game.

There was never a doubt and the Arizona Cardinals are not particularly close in competing with the Seahawks for the NFC West.

That seems to be what the issue is more than anything.

The Arizona Cardinals change things and not much changes.

The Seahawks make a head coach and quarterback change and they are even better. The Cardinals do something similar and they are categorically not good.

Maybe it’s the team?

Anyway you look at it, the Arizona Cardinals are at the bottom of the division, they are 2-11 in the Jonathan Gannon era when Kyler Murray is not starting at quarterback and they don’t seem to have much to hang their hat on.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...izona-cardinals-are-sleepless-in-seattle-loss

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Zay Jones done for season after achilles injury against Seahawks

Things went from bad to worse in the loss to the Seattle Seahawks for the Arizona Cardinals as they have lost Zay Jones for the season.

Arizona Cardinals WR Zay Jones is OUT for the season with an Achilles injury @PHNX_Cardinals pic.twitter.com/Jj2EDnR3KQ

— Bo Brack (@BoBrack) November 10, 2025

Jones has played in eight games this season for the Cardinals, and had 12 receptions for 183 yards.

In his brief Cardinals career thus far he played in 19 games, had 20 receptions for 267 yards and did not score a touchdown.

Jones was signed as a free agent in the 2024 offseason and had small roles in a number of games, but was mostly a veteran presence that could fill-in at all three wide receiver positions when needed.

His injury opens up some opportunities for young guys on the roster, but otherwise should not have a huge impact on things as long as the Cardinals top three targets, Marvin Harrison Jr., Michael Wilson and Greg Dortch can all stay healthy as well.

Wishing Jones nothing but a good and speedy recovery.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...season-after-achilles-injury-against-seahawks

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Winners & Losers: Cardinals get trampled in loss to Seahawks

The Arizona Cardinals came into the rebound game against the Seattle Seahawks with hopes that perhaps there was a way they could dislodge the NFC West Division leaders. Seattle has proven to be a very good team this year, so the Cardinals’ aspirations were certainly a hope and a prayer.

RELATED: CARDINALS ARE SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE

But the Seahawks built a huge lead early in the first half, and then cruised to a 44-22 win over their division foe aided by a porous offensive line who caused two forced fumbles for touchdowns.

The loss now places the 3-6-0 Cardinals with the realization that perhaps their season is about at its end. With just eight games remaining, and the fact that it takes a minimum of 10 wins to secure a playoff berth, even if Arizona ran the table, it wouldn’t be enough to qualify for the postseason this year.

With today's loss, Jonathan Gannons falls to 3-12 vs the NFC West.

0-6 against the Seahawks.

15-28 overall.

— Johnny Venerable (@JohnnyVenerable) November 10, 2025

And besides, Arizona just did not play any sort of good game on Sunday. Not even close. In fact, they got taken to the woodshed. The loss of not having several of their best defensive players really showed.

So, who played well for the Cardinals? Who didn’t?

______________________________________________________________________________

WINNERS​

TE Trey McBride – Nice catch and run in the first quarter, getting 20 yards to Seattle’s 34-yard line. The third-and-13 conversion for 18 yards to get to the Seahawks’ four-yard line was a thing of beauty. Nice outstretched catch in the second quarter for a 20-yard gain in the second quarter. The third-and-13 catch with just six minutes left before halftime got the Cardinals in business at the three-yard line.

making it happen

: CBS pic.twitter.com/AIjAVs9bvh

— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) November 9, 2025

Did you see what McBride did on the touchdown right after the fumble recovery? Lining up at the line, he blocked LB DeMarcus Lawrence, then fell to the turf for one Mississippi as all the other receivers went into one corner or the other in the end zone. This cleared out the middle. Then, McBride got up for the shuttle pass. Way to sell it. Unfortunately, it was called back. A 12-yard completion in Quarter 3 converted a fourth-and-11 play to midfield. Finished with 13 targets, 9 receptions for 127 yards, a 14.1 yards per reception average, and one touchdown.

______________________________________________________________________________

LOSERS​

Fourth down situations – The Cardinals just could not convert on two critical fourth down plays after getting inside the five-yard line. Already down 35-0, Arizona took the ball on its own 35-yard line in the second quarter and drove the field with runs by RB Bam Knight and nice gains by McBride and WR Michael Wilson.

Arizona now had a first-and-goal from the four. Three plays netted just two yards. On fourth down, the Cardinals had spent an 11-play drive and got nothing as the Seahawks stonewalled with 10 defenders in the box. Their first possession of the second half looked promising, down 38-7. Got inside the five, and again, could not score.

First half defense – The Seahawks went up and down the field with ease in the first half. Their possessions: Touchdown, touchdown, touchdown, lost fumble, field goal, end of half. By the way, for the game, Seattle did not punt a single time.

Offensive line – The Cardinals had a good drive going in the second quarter. Right after QB Jacoby Brissett hit WR Michael Wilson with a 15-yard strike to Seattle’s 19-yard line, DE Leonard Williams got to the inside, who had a direct shot at Brissett for the sack. On this one play, three Cardinal offensive linemen were blocking Williams while LB Tyrice Knight came late to hit Brissett and cause the fumble, which resulted in a touchdown. OG Will Hernandez, OT Jonah Williams, and Kelvin Beachum were standing right where Knight rushed, but had pulled to the rightside instead, leaving a wide-open lane.

Name a more iconic duo… we'll wait. @Tyricek_ @TankLawrence

: @NFLonCBS pic.twitter.com/3aBULHVUD9

— Seattle Seahawks (@Seahawks) November 9, 2025

On a third-and-one with 6:37 left in the first quarter, RB Bam Knight got the handoff and started to the left side. Hernandez pulled and ran right past LB Drake Thomas, who nailed Knight for a loss. Third-down-and-11 early in the second quarter, Brissett was smothered as he attempted to pass. On the left side, three Cardinals were blocking two defenders while Hernandez had to block a blitzing Knight plus Lawrence. So, yes, a sack, fumble, and return for a touchdown occurred. Every time. Now, 28-0.

A third-and-10 with just over one minute left before halftime, and Brissett was mauled by three defenders who did nothing but get past their blocker.

Pass coverage – Everyone knew that Seahawks WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba leads the league in receiving. No team should line up man coverage and think they can cover this guy. Yet, on Seattle’s first drive, CB Garrett Williams had single coverage while S Jalen Thompson got over to him late for the touchdown catch. What is the sense in double coverage when the second man isn’t even in the frame? Towards the end of the first period, QB Sam Darnold hit Smith-Njigba for 13 yards, again, in single coverage.

Seattle had a third-and-four halfway into the second quarter. WR Cooper Kupp just ran an out pattern to the right, to which nobody covered him. Meanwhile, on the other side of the field, three Arizona defenders were covering Smith-Njigba and WR Dareke Young. Kupp was all alone at the 40-yard line, who then caught the ball and took it down to the aided by missed tackles by CB Kei-Trel Clark and S Budda Baker, before Thompson brought him down at the three for a 67-yard gain.

Play calling – Third-and-one at their own 39 with 12:58 left before halftime, the Cardinals had WR Greg Dortch out wide right, single back, and two tight ends in tight. To counter this, Seattle had 10 players up on the line. Why not bring out three receivers and a tight end in the slot to spread the defense out?

Instead, Dortch takes the handoff on the jet sweep, and instantly, two linebackers and a safety go to fill the hole as McBride’s man loses the block, and Dortch gets greeted by four defenders. Does this make any sense?

On the third-and-goal play from Seattle’s three, this is exactly what Arizona did: two receivers to the left, one to the right, and a tight end in the slot. The defense only had six in the box. Seattle dropped seven in coverage as RB Emari Demercado came out of the backfield and caught the ball at the two before being short a half yard. So, what happens on fourth-and-goal? You guessed it. Arizona lines up nine on the line with an offensive lineman at fullback and a single back, while, you guessed it, Seattle had all 11 guys in the box. Knight gets hit early and often and ends up with four different Seahawks touching him. Geez…..There were six defenders near him when he fell. Six.

After the fumble recovery, look what happened. Three receivers out, tight end in the slot, and Seattle was forced to spread out as McBride caught the short shuttle pass for the touchdown. With nine minutes left in the third stanza, another bunch formation on third-and-goal, in which DeMercado only got two, trying to run up the middle. Then the fourth down play was at least spread out, but a wasted 17-play drive with zero points.

2025 season – So much promise to begin the year. Start with the offensive line in this year’s free agency period, as well as the draft.

______________________________________________________________________________

Birdseed – This game went south quickly after “Here, hold my beer.”​

QB Jacoby Brissett – Excellent read in the second quarter to McBride that got the offense to the three-yard line, and then made an excellent read on the shuttle pass to McBride right before halftime. Brissett had a nice 15-yard scramble early in the third quarter when he was flushed.

To be fair to Brissett, the offensive line played like crap with a pocket that imploded quickly on most passing plays. On both fumbles that resulted in defensive scoop-and-scores, the offensive line had enough bodies to match up with the players on defense rushing; they just didn’t pair up and instead had one guy blocking two, while on the other side, it was three guys blocking two.

The most impressive play was with 1:16 left in the second quarter with a third-and-10. Brissett had pressure from OT Paris Johnson’s man and also Hernandez’s defender, so he had to step up and look like he was going to take off. Except, he flings it to Demercado, who is just six yards ahead of him, and gains 34 yards.

An absolute strike to McBride with 11:00 left in the third quarter, who was the third option with tight coverage by S Ty Okada. On the fourth-and-goal midway in the third quarter, Brissett had open field to his left, and if nothing else, when it takes off, maybe a receiver would have gotten open. More than likely, he could have scored. Finished going 22-44 for 258 yards, two touchdowns, zero interceptions, and was sacked five times.

LB Zaven Collins – Nice job jumping on the fumble at the two in the second quarter instead of trying to be a hero and scoop it up. Four Seahawks had a chance at it if Collins does not fall on it and cradle it. Had zero tackles.

S Denzel Burke – Missed the open field tackle on RB George Holani with 1:26 left in the first quarter, who scored instead to make it 21-0. Had five tackles and one batted pass.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...rs-cardinals-get-trampled-in-loss-to-seahawks

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

The good, the bad and ugly from the Cardinals’ Week 10 loss to the Seahawks

The Cardinals were blown out by the Seahawks, 44–22, on Sunday afternoon. Seattle took a 35–0 lead, aided by two defensive touchdowns, putting the game out of reach early for Arizona.

Here is the good, the bad and the ugly from the Seahawks’ dismantling of the Cardinals:

The good​

TE Trey McBride: When things go south for the Cardinals, something is always looking up for McBride. Carrying nearly the entire offense, McBride had his most productive game of the year, finishing with nine catches for 127 yards and a touchdown.

Second-half scoring: After putting up a goose egg in the first half, the Cardinals showed some life out of the tunnel, scoring 22 points in the second half. Unfortunately, the game had already been out of Arizona’s reach.

The bad​

Offensive line: Quarterback Jacoby Brissett was under constant duress the entire game. The offensive line gave up 23 quarterback pressures, 10 hits, and five sacks. They also struggled to consistently sustain blocks in the running game.

Run defense: The Seahawks’ rushing offense had been inconsistent entering this game. But they managed to have a field day against the Cardinals, who allowed 150 yards on the ground combined between running backs Zach Charbonnet and Kenneth Walker III.

Injuries: The injury bug got a hefty bite of the Cardinals, who saw several players on both sides of the ball leave the game. Zay Jones (Achilles) and Dadrion Taylor-Demerson (ankle), Walter Nolen (knee), Darius Robinson (groin), Bam Knight (ankle), Jonah Williams (shoulder), and Simi Fehoko (wrist) all got injured.

The ugly​

Early turnovers: The tone of this game was set by the two early turnovers that resulted in defensive touchdowns for the Seahawks. Both were strip-sacks of Brissett caused by linebacker Tyrice Knight and recovered to the house by edge rusher DeMarcus Lawrence.

Season outlook: There appeared to be some hope for the Cardinals following two hard-fought games against the Colts and Packers, and last Monday night’s win over the Cowboys. But the Seahawks put that to bed, dropping Arizona to 3-6 and raising questions before getting to the back end of their schedule.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...om-the-cardinals-week-10-loss-to-the-seahawks

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Cardinals 2025 free agents list

(Photo by Robin Alam/ISI Photos/Getty Images)

Now that the 2025 season is a certainty to not end up with a playoff berth, the process to begin thinking about next year’s roster begins.

Eight games are remaining on the schedule, which is half the season. Arizona is 3-6-0. However, the possibility of capturing the NFC West Division seems unlikely with both the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks sitting on top of the division with identical 7-2-0 records.

RELATED: CARDINALS IN NO-MAN’S LAND

To qualify for a Wild Card spot, it takes 10 wins. Yes, mathematically, the Cardinals are still in it. They could win the division despite currently with a 0-3 division record, and they could qualify to secure a Wild Card seed.

However, they won’t get either. We as Cardinals fans already know this. Arizona would have to win six of its remaining eight games, with two of those contests against the Rams, and pull off upsets over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Houston Texans, and Jacksonville Jaguars.

But already knowing that the franchise will miss the playoffs this season takes the pressure off while watching the remainder of their games. No longer does this long catch or a dropped pass or getting beat 35-7 at halftime matter since we know the win-loss record isn’t an issue.

What happens from this point on in the season only affects one thing: slotting for next April’s NFL draft.

The roster for next year will be completely different. For that matter, so may the coaching staff. Who knows? The new guys obtained in the draft will be just a portion of the next year’s player roster. The other is getting in some free agents, plus signing existing guys on this year’s team.

Contracts are about to run out for many players on this 2025 squad. What should the Cardinals do? Re-sign them, let them walk, or sign them before their contract officially expires?

This is a current list of all Arizona free agents and their status:

_____________________________________________________________________________

Legend:

UFA = Unrestricted free agent: Players with four or more seasons and an expired contract. Free to sign with any team at any time.

ERFA = Exclusive rights free agent: Players with less than three accrued seasons whose contracts have expired.

RFA = Restricted free agent: Players with three accrued seasons whose contracts have expired. Free to sign with any team at any time, but their original team can offer them (known as a tender).

Void: A dummy season added to a contract to spread out a signing bonus over more years, which lowers the annual salary cap hit. Used in restructuring a contract.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Running back

Michael Carter (UFA), age 27: $1.17 million, guarantees: $0

Bam Knight (RFA), age 25: $1.03 million, guarantees: $0

Emari Demercado (RFA), age 27: $903,333, guarantees: $70,000

Receiver/Tight end

Greg Dortch (UFA), age 28: $3.263 million, guarantees: $0

Zay Jones (UFA), age 31: $2.4 million, guarantees: $1.3 million

Simi Fehoko (UFA), age 29: $1.7 million, guarantees: $0

Josiah Deguara (UFA), age 29: $1.17 million, guarantees: $0

Travis Vokolek (ERFA), age 28: $1.03 million, guarantees: $0

Offensive line

Jonah Williams (Void), age 29: $15 million, guarantees: $19 million

Kelvin Beachum (UFA), age 37: $4 million, guarantees: $3.49 million

Will Hernandez (UFA), age 31: $2.17 million, guarantees: $790,000

Michael Carter (UFA), age 27: $1.17 million, guarantees: $0

Special teams

Blake Gillikin (UFA), age 28: $1.85 million, guarantees: $1.2 million

Pat O’Donnell (UFA), age 35: $1.255 million, guarantees: $0

Aaron Brewer (UFA), age 36: $1.255 million, guarantees: $0

Defensive line

Calais Campbell (UFA), age 40: $5.5 million, guarantees: $4.25 million

L. J. Collier (UFA), age 31: $3 million, guarantees: $1.5 million

P. J. Mustipher (ERFA), age 27: $960,000, guarantees: $0

Linebacker

J. J. Russell Zay Jones (UFA), age 28: $1.1 million, guarantees: $0

Defensive back

Jalen Thompson (Void), age 28: $12 million, guarantees: $20 million

Starling Thomas (RFA), age 26: $905,000, guarantees: $20,000

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...-agency/84618/cardinals-2025-free-agents-list

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Cardinals Reacts Survey Week 11

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Cardinals fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

This week things did not go well.

First, the Arizona Cardinals are blown out in a laughable fashion by their rivals.

Then, they get out of the game with a ton of injuries, but nothing catastrophic, outside of Zay Jones.

However, today things just got to the point where you just cannot imagine how much more the Cardinals and fans can take, as Marvin Harrison Jr. will miss this week after having emergency surgery to remove his appendix. There is no information outside of that, but it sounds like it did not burst, which means a quicker return.

So, with that in mind, how confident are you in the direction of the Arizona Cardinals? On top of that, how many of their final eight games do the Cardinals win?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/nfl-reacts-survey/84646/cardinals-reacts-survey-week-11

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Marvin Harrison Jr. out with appendix surgery

When things go bad, they go from bad to worse.

The Arizona Cardinals will be without wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. this week and potentially longer as he had to have appendix surgery.

#AZCardinals WR Marvin Harrison Jr. had surgery for appendicitis and is out this week .

— Darren Urban (@Cardschatter) November 12, 2025

The problem with the injury is not just missing Marvin, which is a massive loss because the Cardinals passing game goes through Trey McBride and Marvin and then no one, but also because they already lost Zay Jones for the year, and now Semi Fehoko is going on injured reserve.

WR Simi Fehoko is going to IR with his arm injury.

LB Baron Browning is in concussion protocol.

LB Mack Wilson Sr. (ribs) will remain out this week .

— Darren Urban (@Cardschatter) November 12, 2025

Outside of the loss of MHJ this week, and probably the next game or two, it is the lack of depth at the position.

Michael Wilson has 231 yards receiving on the season, but has not scored a touchdown since week two against the Carolina Panthers.

Greg Dortch has 73 yards receiving on the season.

It’ll be more Elijah Higgins as well, who has been playing well in his true tight end two role.

Let’s hope they get healthy quick, especially Marvin Harrison Jr.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...84634/marvin-harrison-jr-injury-49ers-surgery

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Has Kyler Murray played his last game for the Cardinals? NFL analyst: “Absolutely.”

The Arizona Cardinals went into training camp this year with what they considered a very good quarterback room.

Veteran Kyler Murray was finally healthy, GM Monti Ossenfort had brought in journeyman Jacoby Brissett as an experienced backup on the same day that he inked DT Dalvin Tomlinson, and former fifth-round draft pick Clayton Tune had been a holdover for the season before. Desmond Ridder was gone.

RELATED: CARDINALS – COWBOYS REACTIONS

At the conclusion of training camp, Tune was waived, and Kedon Slovis was signed to the practice squad after he was released on the final cutdown from the Houston Texans. He was later elevated after Murray became injured with an ankle issue in the loss to the Tennessee Titans.

As we all know, Brissett has been under center ever since. Murray was thought to be ready to return to the field, but after the win over the Dallas Cowboys in Week 9, doctors determined that his ankle needed more time to heal. So, the franchise placed him on IR. He will remain on this list for a minimum of four weeks. The timeline is 4-8 weeks.

Kyler Murray

Midfoot sprain confirmed, placed on IR.

My suspicion is he initially had a mild midfoot sprain, but tried to return back and re-aggravated it leading to a moderate midfoot sprain. These take 4-6 weeks to RTP, which is consistent with him, messing the past couple… https://t.co/Sb8CQsG2Z5 pic.twitter.com/BVkPgyVyB5

— Jesse Morse, M.D. (@DrJesseMorse) November 5, 2025

Brissett came to the Cardinals on a two-year deal. Ossenfort must have been psychic, giving a backup QB more than the traditional one-year deal. Now, Brissett may go into next year’s training camp as the starter, the backup to Murray, or at the very least, in a fair competition for the starting role.

But some don’t believe that if – and when – Murray returns, his starting job just might be in limbo.

The unwritten rule in sports is that you can’t lose your job to an injury. In theory, that is. But it happens more frequently than you realize to quarterbacks.

In 1963, QB Jim Ninowski of the Cleveland Browns injured his shoulder, and backup Frank Ryan took over. When Nino was healed and ready, new Browns head coach Blanton Collier kept Ryan as his starter, and he was the starting QB in the 1964 NFL Championship Game that Cleveland won 27-0.

QB Drew Bledsoe had been the first overall draft pick, named to the Pro Bowl three times, and had just signed a then-record 10-year, $103 million contract. During a game in 2001, he injured a hemothorax that had him bleeding a pint of blood an hour. He missed games, and upon his return, backup Tom Brady had already convinced the coaches that Bledsoe was no longer in charge.

In 2005, Minnesota Vikings QB Dante Culpepper tore his MCL, ACL, and PCL in Week 7. Backup Brad Johnson then went 7-2 and played very well. He set a team record for lowest interception-to-attempt ratio (1.3%), which was the lowest in the NFL among starting QBs. He was named the Vikings’ starting quarterback the following year despite Culpepper’s presence.

Which circles back to the Cardinals.

Already, fans and the media are pointing to the fact that Brissett is playing better than Murray, and the offense has completely changed when he is directing the offense.

Arizona’s head coach, Jonathan Gannon, keeps stating that Murray is this team’s starting quarterback. After the Cardinals spanked the Cowboys and gave them their first home loss of the season, in the press conference afterwards, Gannon was asked twice if Murray was ready to play the following game, and he would be inserted as the starter. Each time, Gannon acknowledged that he would.

The Cardinals are 3-6-0. They have eight games remaining, and reside in the toughest division in the league. Every team except Arizona has a winning record, and it is assumed that they have missed this year’s playoffs with the loss to the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday .

Everybody seems to have their opinion on what should happen in four weeks when Murray is completely healed and activated.

On the ESPN show, “Get Up,” their four analysts discussed the subject recently.

Host Mike Greenwood asked:

“Do you feel that Kyler Murray has started his last game with the Cardinals?”

Analyst Ryan Clark stated:

“Absolutely.”

The remainder of the hosts were attentive and appeared to want to hear what Clark had to say about this.

Clark continued:

“And sometimes you can tell by the conversations you have. I got the opportunity to speak with him, and he was like, it’s healing. But you could see in him that there wasn’t any confidence in that. Not saying that he’s still hurt or he’ll be too hurt to return.”

The white elephant in the room is that the juice surrounding Brissett is real right now.

Against Dallas, Arizona moved up and down the field at will. Even after the Cowboys blocked a punt and recovered it in the end zone to bring their team back to 10-7, the Cardinals took the ball and went 74 yards in 11 plays and scored a touchdown as if nothing fazed them in front of 92,211 home patrons and 16.2 million viewers at home.

And media folks such as Clark have noticed:

“You can tell that the tide is changing in the building. When you speak to people on that team, the superlatives they use to describe Jacoby Brissett aren’t superlatives that you should be pointing out about a leader or a quarterback. The way he leads, the way he communicates, it’s saying to me that we weren’t getting these things and now we are.”

Just an AWESOME sequence. @MarvHarrisonJr @_CeeDeeThree #AZCardinals pic.twitter.com/CbUMb9WTDA

— Kyler Murray’s Burner (@KylerMurraywins) November 4, 2025

Co-host Peter Schrager chimed in:

“A lot of the Cardinals people are just so positive and gave effusive praise of Jacoby. But I’m looking at (Murray) over there, and we’re not talking about him. Well, he’s injured. He’s got the foot issue, and he’s going on IR. The contract is tricky.”

The fact that the Cardinals’ front office has let go of other former franchise members and knows that they are in the doghouse with still owing money, is nothing new. They have been down this road before on numerous occasions.

The barricade​

The roadblock is that monster contract he signed back in 2022 before Gannon and Ossenfort arrived. It was a five-year, $230.5 million contract extension to stay with the Cardinals, with $160 million guaranteed.

Murray has $36 million of guaranteed money left. He is signed through 2028, but in the final two seasons, there aren’t any more guaranteed funds owed.

Schrager explained:

“Maybe the contract is the only issue. But, in a post-Russell Wilson world where we’ll figure it out, we’ll rip the Band-Aid off and we’ll go from there. I think anything is possible, and they could move on. I will note this: this owner is still paying Kliff Kingsbury his full salary. This owner is still paying Steve Keim his full salary, a general manager who was fired two years ago. The new brass, they did not select Kyler Murray. He is not their precious item.”

It is entirely possible that the franchise could decide to move on from Murray. So far, Gannon has kept stating that Murray remains his starting quarterback and hasn’t moved off of this statement before and after his injury.

I want someone to explain the Arizona Cardinals to me. Not that the Kyler contract is bad, or the wrong decision. But explain what they are to me in 5 minutes or less.

I challenge anyone to actually do it.

— Robert Mays (@robertmays) July 21, 2022

They could trade him, release Murray, or, on March 5, pay the $19.5 million in guaranteed funds that he is due. If the Cardinals release him before June 1, they would take on a $57.7 million dead cap hit. If they release him after June 1, that dead money would be split into $50.5 million in 2026 and $7.2 million in 2027.

Is a separation imminent?

All of this could be determined in the next four weeks. If Brissett and this offense can show that they can move up and down the field like they have in the first three starts, and if the Cardinals are winning games, this subject will definitely intensify. But against Seattle, the offensive line could not keep a pocket, and Brissett was not only sacked five times, but was flushed from the pocket numerous times, and fumbled twice which developed two touchdowns for the Seahawks.

Remember, Arizona under Brissett is just 1-3-0. That’s nothing to write grandma about, and without more “W’s,” this may become moot. Perhaps the Cardinals could draft a quarterback early in next year’s NFL draft, then use Brissett as the bridge and tutor for one more season.

Numbers don’t lie. With Brissett, the Cardinals are averaging 24.75 points and 351.25 yards per game. Under Murray, the offense was averaging 18.8 points and 288 yards per game with a 2-3-0 record.

It is just as possible that Brissett doesn’t play well, or the Cardinals’ offense isn’t doing any better with him under center. At least if they went back to Murray, they would be getting something for their money instead of paying him to play for someone else, plus having to fork over another salary for their own quarterback.

A trade of Murray to a team such as the New York Jets, New Orleans Saints, or the Browns would create $35.3 million in cap savings while leaving behind $17.9 million in dead money.

And this may just be what works the best for Murray. He could become next year’s Daniel Jones or Mac Jones fairy tale.

“Get Up” analyst Bart Scott echoed that sentiment:

“Sometimes, it’s just time. Kyler Murray is extremely talented. I think he’s one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks in the league. Now, he had to mature a little bit. And maybe a fresh start would be great for him. He can be one of these reclamation projects and one of these stories that we love.”

For now, Murray is committed to getting healthy, Gannon is counting on him to return to the field, and there are eight games left to play.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...game-for-the-cardinals-nfl-analyst-absolutely

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Keys for the Cardinals to beat the 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers started it all. It’s their fault.

In Weeks 1 and 2, the Arizona Cardinals defeated the New Orleans Saints and the Carolina Panthers to begin this season 2-0-0. Their next contest was on the road against the 49ers.

RELATED: CARDINALS OPEN AS HOME UNDERDOGS

In the fourth quarter, the score was 13-13. With 3:35 left in the game, Blake Gillikin punted, which was down at the San Francisco six-yard line. On first down, right off the snap, DT Calais Campbell split the gap between RG Dominick Puni and C Jake Brendel. Campbell had a straight shot at QB Mac Jones and placed a hand on him, but the QB was able to dodge the grab as LB Jordan Burch now approached Jones.

A yellow flag could be seen being tossed from the back of the end zone. Jones then darted to the middle of the end zone, cut up the field, and was tackled by S Budda Baker back at the six. The penalty? Puni had no chance at Campbell and, in an effort to slow him down, held him. This action occurred in the end zone. By rule, it is a safety.

Two points were added to the Cardinals’ score, plus they got the ball with 3:15 remaining in the game.

Arizona’s drive began at its own 35-yard line. The clock showed 3:10. After four plays and one first down conversion, the Cardinals had a third-and-nine at the 50. QB Kyler Murray found WR Zay Jones open, threw a great pass, to which Jones lost control as he fell to the turf two yards past the first down marker. Clock: 1:54. Instead of a first down catch, Arizona had to punt.

The Niners took control at their own 20. They then completed passes of 11 yards, 10, 7, 11, and 20, and were helped by a five-yard illegal use of hands penalty by S Denzel Burke. The 20-yard pass completion by RB Christian McCaffrey placed the ball at Arizona’s 16-yard line. With four seconds left, San Fran’s K Eddie Pineiro nailed a 35-yard field goal for the 16-15 win.

The drive took 10 plays and encompassed 63 yards and used just 1:46 of clock.

This began the jinx that Arizona conjured up with having a lead going late into the fourth quarter, yet losing. One opponent after another used this same strategy.

And now comes the rebound game against division foe San Francisco. This time, the contest is at home in the afternoon slot televised by FOX. San Francisco is now 6-4-0 and 3-1-0 in the division. They say a team is only as good as who they beat. The 49ers defeated the Seattle Seahawks 17-13, the Saints 26-21, Arizona 16-15, the Los Angeles Rams 26-23, the Atlanta Falcons 20-10, and the New York Football Giants 34-24.

Beating both the Seahawks and the Rams is a big deal. Both squads are exceptional teams with identical 7-2-0 records. The Cardinals were spanked by Seattle and have two games ahead on the schedule with the Rams.

The fact that Arizona should have beaten the 49ers in their first meeting has nothing to do with this game. It never does. Players get hurt and are replaced. Coaches see things differently and formulate plans to attack in other ways.

ESPN predicts that the 49ers have a 63.7% chance of winning on Sunday. What are the keys for the Cardinals to defeat San Fran?

Dominate the offensive intermediate zone​

The 49ers do not have a competent pass defense. They possess good safety coverage, but their cornerbacks are the defense’s weak link. The Cardinals need to throw the 8–12-yard passes and then insert some 20-yard plays.

Obviously, this begins with TE Trey McBride. Throw to him often and move the chains. And why isn’t this offense using Michael Wilson more? He comes through when he is thrown the ball. The Niners’ linebacker group is good at tackling, but lacks good coverage skills against tight ends.

The short passing game is not the best option, and throwing the long ball will be different now that WR Marv Harrison is down and unavailable. Wilson and WR Greg Dortch have the speed, but the San Fran safety group is an exceptional group.

The 49ers are ranked #26 in defense of the pass. Exploit it.

Contain the 49ers’ big-play threats​

Last game, McCaffrey was used to get good gains not by running the ball, but by the short passes and screen plays. Take that away.

Use and designate one player to play the spy on McCaffrey. S Budda Baker or LB Zaven Collins would probably work. LB Akeem Davis-Gaither would not be the best choice, as he does not have the speed to stay with McCaffrey if he took off on a long route, and is a very good route runner.

WR Ricky Pearsall is their deep threat. Having a safety go over the top would hinder his ability to catch passes. Allow the other receivers to do the dirty work.

The Cardinals will need to stop the 49ers’ explosive plays.

Stop the interior running game​

Other than Campbell, the interior of the defense has not played well against the run.

This will come into play against the Niners. Their inside running game has improved by eight points since Week 6. They average 4.8 yards per carry in the last four games between the tackles, up from 3.1 yards per rushing attempt. That is scary.

Arizona is giving up an average of 4.3 yards per carry, but 5.1 yards per attempt inside the tackle box.

Campbell is the only reason those numbers aren’t higher. The fact that rookie DT Walter Nolen is now available should help the run-stopping game tremendously because DTs Dalvin Tomlinson and P.J. Mustipher aren’t getting it done. This duo has 32 total tackles combined this year and has played all nine games.

Teams have found how to attack this Cardinals defense is to get up the gut and move the defensive tackles out of harm’s way, then pull a guard to go into the hole and take out the first linebacker. Wait a sec, the statement, “….and move the defensive tackles out of harm’s way…” does not apply to Campbell.

Since they first met, the 49ers have diversified their rushing attack a bit more by using power running from Brian Robinson along with McCaffrey’s finesse.

Start Nolen and pair him with Campbell, and maintain their gaps. Make both runners have to bounce outside, where a linebacker or safety can make the play.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...4674/keys-for-the-cardinals-to-beat-the-49ers

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Walter Nolen puts up second straight solid game against Seahawks

The Arizona Cardinals have not had a lot of positives this season.

One thing that has been a problem is injuries. Especially along the defensive line where almost everyone has been banged up, except the ageless wonder, and we won’t name him because we don’t want to jinx things.

The biggest one was Walter Nolen, who had no training camp, no preseason and missed the first seven games of the 2025 season with a calf injury.

In his season debut, he balled out:

Cardinals 2025 draft class balling out

Well, despite a lackluster overall performance from the team, Walter Nolen had another good game.

From PFF:

Pick No. 16: Arizona Cardinals: DI Walter Nolen​

• Overall Rookie Grade: 77.5 (Rank: N/A)
• Principal Opponent: Anthony Bradford
• Week 10 Snaps: 35
• Week 10 Grade: 66.7

Nolen was officially credited with only one pressure against the Seahawks, but he had another negated via penalty. Those efforts, albeit across just nine pass-rush reps, earned him a 72.7 PFF pass-rush grade for the day. His twitch and hand usage were on full display across five positively graded run-defense reps. Unfortunately, Nolen’s day was cut short due to a knee injury, although it’s currently considered minor.

In what seems like a lost season, getting excellent production from your first round pick is a huge boon, especially when he missed so much time at the beginning.

Let’s hope he is healthy enough to go on Sunday, and continues to play at a high level.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...p-second-straight-solid-game-against-seahawks

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals have laundry list of injuries before meeting with 49ers

As the season slowly goes into November, the Arizona Cardinals are close to playing for one thing… pride.

That is never a good thing when you are talk about the third year of a rebuild, but things have gone off the rails and who knows if they can get back on them.

Ahead of their matchup with the San Francisco 49ers it seems like an even tougher task, as the Cardinals injury report is longer than ever.

Arizona Cardinals Thursday injury report for Week 11 against the 49ers:

Josh Sweat had a rest day
Walter Nolen was limited
Will Johnson DNP @PHNX_Cardinals pic.twitter.com/MSv2kHcMqa

— Bo Brack (@BoBrack) November 13, 2025

We know there will be no Marvin Harrison Jr. in this one, as he had his appendix removed this week. However, the rest of the names that are concerning are a starting units worth.

Josh Sweat is the biggest name, he joined the list yesterday with a DNP-Rest designation, hopefully it is nothing after not participating on Wednesday’s walkthrough.

From there, Will Johnson, Jonah Williams, Baron Browning, Mack Wilson Sr. and Dadrion Taylor-Demerson all missed practice and are likely out or have already been designated as out for this one.

Then the limited players, well let’s not get to high or low on these guys yet, because the ones that can’t practice are bad enough to worry about.

Let’s hope for some healthy and clarity over the next 48 hours.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...-week-11-niners-marvin-harrison-jr-josh-sweat

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals activate B.J. Ojulari, place Mack Wilson Sr. on injured reserve

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We are finally going to see B.J. Ojulari back in action, but the team also lost Mack Wilson to injured reserve meaning he is out the for at least the next four weeks, meaning he will have missed six games at least.

From the team:

The Arizona Cardinals Football Club today announced the following roster moves:

– Activated linebacker BJ Ojulari (oh-joo-LARR-ee) from the Physically Unable to Perform list (PUP)

– Signed linebacker Jared Bartlett to the active roster from the practice squad

– Elevated tight end Pharaoh Brown and cornerback Darren Hall to the active roster from the practice squad as standard elevations

– Placed linebacker Mack Wilson Sr. on injured reserve

The signing took place today at the Dignity Health Arizona Cardinals Training Center in Tempe, AZ.

Ojulari will wear jersey #9, Bartlett will wear #48, Brown will wear #49 and Hall will wear #30.

It seems odd that this is another instance of the Cardinals taking at least two weeks to put a player on injured reserve.

However, let’s hope for a quick recovery for Wilson, but also continued health for Ojulari so we can see what he can do.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...ulari-place-mack-wilson-sr-on-injured-reserve

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals fans don’t see many wins in the final eight games of 2025

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Cardinals fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

While the confidence of the fanbase is gone, how do they see the final eight games of the 2025 season going?

For many, the Arizona Cardinals are just not a good team, and it showed up way too much last week. They lack any semblance of balance on offense, they have little to nothing to hang their hat on, and have no identity.

So, how does that play out of the end of the season run?

First, let’s take a look at the final eight games for the Cardinals:

• v San Francisco 49ers
• v Jacksonville Jaguars
• @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers
• v Los Angeles Rams
• @ Houston Texans
• v Atlanta Falcons
• @ Cincinnati Bengals
• @ Los Angeles Rams

We knew the back half of the season would be tough, but now it looks like a list of killers. If you are being objective, the first thing you see is the four remaining home games. I think you like your chances against the Niners (a little banged up), Jaguars and Falcons. You don’t feel a lot of hope against the Rams.

Meanwhile, the road games seem even more daunting, as the Bucs are the top team in the NFC South, the Texans have the best defense in the NFL, the Bengals have Joe Burrow returning, and the Rams are the Rams.

Now, with the Rams in the final game, there could be a chance they have clinched their spot and rest their old bodies, but that is the best case.

So, when fans were asked how many games they saw the Cardinals winning to finish things off, less than three was the overwhelming answer.

The interesting thing is how much fans are okay with giving Jonathan Gannon and company another season after such a drastic regression (if they only win two games). Five wins, and again, not having an identity, is a huge issue.

Maybe things will get better the final portion of the season, but for now, fans don’t see it.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/n...ee-many-wins-in-the-final-eight-games-of-2025