RSS Cards Team Notes

[Arizona Cardinals]

Former Pro Bowl QB considered for Cardinals’ coaching staff

Oct 9, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Schaub (8) during the second half against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Falcons defeated the Broncos 23-16. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

It wasn’t that long ago that veteran Pro Bowl quarterback Matt Schaub was prepping for his own Super Bowl with the Atlanta Falcons against the New England Patriots.

Now, he is being considered for the QB coaching position with the Arizona Cardinals.

RELATED: HACKETT HIRED AS CARDINALS OC

New Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur is busy filling out his coaching staff. First up for the offense, he chose veteran offensive mind Nathaniel Hackett as the OC. Then, he inked Matt Merritt from the University of Miami to man the RB coaching spot, a job he filled while at Miami. Next up is a guy to assist with the quarterback situation.

Schaub is being considered for the vacant QB Coach position. Also in the mix are Falcons offensive assistant K.J. Black, and Kansas City Chiefs assistant QB coach Dan Williams.

Black was the Co-Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach for Florida A&M University, and before that, the passing game Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach for Prairie View A&M. He began as a Grad Assistant for Prairie View A&M where he played and graduated.

Williams has been with the Chiefs for seven years and is in his third season as assistant quarterbacks coach. Before, he served as the offensive quality control/assistant quarterbacks coach for two seasons. He has been a part of three Super Bowl wins. His father, Ted Williams, spent 20 years on the Philadelphia Eagles coaching staff. Williams is a former QB with Stevenson University.

Schaub played 17 years in the NFL with four different clubs. He was a third-round draft pick of the Falcons in 2004 after a sterling career at Virginia, where he tossed 56 touchdowns. He was the 2002 ACC Player of the Year and named First Team All-ACC. He was twice selected to the All-ACC Academic Football Team and finished his college career with at least 22 school records. His #7 jersey has since been retired.

In 2007, Schaub was traded to the Houston Texans, and the 6’-6”, 245-pound signal-caller found his calling. In 2009, he led the league in total passing yards (4,770), completions (396), attempts (583), and passing yards average per game (298.1). He connected on 29 TDs with 15 picks and was named to his first Pro Bowl. That season, he was named the NFL passing yards leader.

While with Houston, Schaub set 23 team records, including “Most career wins” (46) and “Most career passing yards” (23,221). He was named to his second Pro Bowl in 2012.

He then played a single season with the Oakland Raiders and Baltimore Ravens before going back to Atlanta and backing up QB Matt Ryan before hanging up his cleats in 2021.

In 2023, the Falcons hired him as a “Football Analyst.” Schaub was able to stay involved in the NFL and perhaps become the catalyst for a coaching career.

Schaub’s coaching career may be missing the experience, but his playing days just might prove to be what LaFleur is looking for in order to get the Cardinals quarterback situation into a better place.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...wl-qb-considered-for-cardinals-coaching-staff

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Super Bowl LX: Seahawks vs Patriots discussion thread

Feb 4, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots helmets at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

It is finally here.

The Arizona Cardinals and 29 other NFL teams are sitting at home as we all prepare for the final game of the season.

This is where you can discuss the game, banter about how lucky some teams are, or how far away the Arizona Cardinals are.

Hopefully it will be a good one, but the way the money is coming in, it seems far-fetched.

Looking forward to hopefully not being in the best division in the NFL next season.

Here is everything you need to know about the game.

Super Bowl LX: Seattle Seahawks (14-3) vs New England Patriots (14-3)​

Date: Sunday, February 8, 2026
Time: 4:30 p.m. AT
Location: Levi’s Stadium | Santa Clara, CA
National TV: NBC (Channel 12 locally)
National online streaming: NFL+, Peacock
TV announcers: Mike Tirico (play-by-play) Cris Collinsworth (analyst) Kaylee Hartung and Melissa Stark (sideline)
National Radio: Westwood One – Kevin Harlan (play-by-play) Kurt Warner (analyst) Laura Okmin (sideline)
Betting line: Seahawks -4.5 per FanDuel Sportsbook

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Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...owl-lx-seahawks-vs-patriots-discussion-thread

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals hire Tony Sorrentino as wide receivers coach per report

CHICAGO, IL - OCTOBER 15: Assistant wide receivers coach Tony Sorrentino of the Minnesota Vikings yells at a referee during the first half of an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on October 15, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Arizona Cardinals are hiring their new wide receivers coach, because according to Peter Schrager they are hiring Tony Sorrentino the assistant wide receivers coach for the Minnesota Vikings.

The Arizona Cardinals are hiring Minnesota Vikings Assistant WRs coach Tony Sorrentino as their WRs coach.

Sorrentino has been in Minnesota for 4 years, working with WRs Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, and now will be with Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson. @ESPNNFL pic.twitter.com/SrsgJcVoDr

— Peter Schrager (@PSchrags) February 12, 2026

Sorrentino has worked previously at Northern Illinois University and Kent State before making the leap to the NFL and helping out the Vikings passing attack under Kevin O’Connell.

With the Vikings the wide receivers have produced massive numbers.

Now, to be fair the Vikings have Justin Jefferson who in his brief career has more first team All Pro’s than Larry Fitzgerald did in his career.

So, how much did he help? The thing that we know is that Jordan Addison when he’s on the field is good, and they have done a nice job with their third receivers as well.

Now, can he get the most out of Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson?

What are your thoughts if any on the hire?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...sorrentino-as-wide-receivers-coach-per-report

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Former Cardinals great Jim Bakken named to Hall of Very Good

Sep 17, 1972; Baltimore, MD, USA: FILE PHOTO; St. Louis Cardinals kicker Jim Bakken (25) in action against the Baltimore Colts at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Herb Weitman-Imagn Images

The Hall of Very Good has announced their Class of 2026, and a Cardinals familiar face was included: kicker Jim Bakken. He will join nine other pro football players.

Bakken was a roster member of the St. Louis Cardinals from 1962 to 1978 and played 17 years before hanging up his cleats. Today, he is 85 years old and lives in Madison, Wisconsin.

RELATED: CARDINALS 2026 FREE AGENT LIST

The Hall of Very Good (HOVG) is a secondary Hall as part of the membership of the Professional Football Researchers Association (PFRA). Each year, members recommend players for that year’s Hall, then the list is whittled down to 20 names. From there, 10 players are voted in.

LINK: HALL OF VERY GOOD

The purpose of the HOVG is to recognize pro football players who had excellent careers, but just not be good enough to be nominated for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. Numerous players have been elected to the HOVG and then later were indeed inducted into the Hall of Fame at a later date.

Including Bakken, 10 Cardinal players are now enshrined into the HOVG: RB O.J. Anderson, HB John David Crow, S Pat Fischer, HB Marshall Goldberg, DE Ken Gray, FB Pat Harder, OT Duke Slater, DB Abe Woodson, and coach Don Coryell.

Bakken grew up in Madison, Wisconsin, and played basketball, baseball, and was the quarterback on his high school’s football team. He then went to the University of Wisconsin and shared the QB position, but was the team’s punter and kicker. He was named Honorable Mention All-Big 10 in his sophomore year as both punter and kicker.

He led the Big 10 in punting average in his junior and senior seasons. His longest field goal was 47-yards.

Kickers and punters are drafted in today’s NFL, usually on Day 3. A lot of really good specialists go undrafted that become really good kickers. K Adam Vinatieri is in the 2026 Hall of Fame and went undrafted. The 1962 NFL draft was 20 rounds, so teams routinely selected punters and kickers. This was also a time when there were very few specialists in the NFL. The punter was usually a quarterback or a safety while the kickers were almost always an offensive lineman. Long snappers did not exist as a stand-alone position, so this task was performed by the center or a tight end. It was not uncommon for several players to take on these “extra duties.”

Bakken was chosen by the Los Angeles Rams in Round 7 of the 1962 NFL draft.

He was a last cutdown casualty of the Rams training camp, and the St. Louis Cardinals put in a waiver claim on him. Veteran Danny Villanueva covered all kicking duties, and Bakken wasn’t able to unseat him. Both players were straight-away style placekickers.

For St. Louis in 1961, the kicking duties were the job of offensive tackle Gerry Perry, whereas strong safety Jerry Norton was the team’s punter.

In 1962, there were just eight coaches on NFL teams, and the roster limit was 36 players. Coaching staffs did not want to have a kicker or punter take up valuable space on their roster, so other players took on these jobs. But in 1962, Bakken became the first Cardinals rostered specialist.

In his third season, he went 25-38 in field goals and 40-40 in PATs. His field goal attempts and converted field goals led the NFL in 1964. The following season he led the league in field goal percentage with 67.7% and was named to his first Pro Bowl.

In all, Bakken went to four Pro Bowls, was selected First Team All-Pro twice, and was the NFL scoring leader in 1967 (117). In addition, he was later named to the “NFL 1960s All-Decade Team” and the “NFL 1970s All-Decade Team.”

His nickname was “Bags” because his teammates referred to him as “money in the bank.”

He also had great success in his latter years. In his 13th season, he went 19-24 on field goals and 40-41 on PATs and was voted to his third Pro Bowl. The following season, he was again named to the Pro Bowl by going 20-27 on field goals and 33-35 on PATs.

In addition, Bakken had 65 NFL punts for 2,439 yards with an average of 36.8 yards per kick and a long of 56 yards.

The 2026 HOVG is his fourth Hall of Fame honor. He was inducted into the “Madison (Wisconsin) Sports Hall of Fame” in 1984, was inducted into the “University of Wisconsin Athletic Department-National W Club Hall of Fame” in 2001, and the ”St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame” in 2015.

Anyone interested in becoming a member of the PFRA, click the below link:

LINK: PFRA HOMEPAGE

The remainder of the 2026 HOVG class includes Nate Newton, Clem Daniels, Charley Brock, Mike Stratton, Wilber Marshall, Kent Hull, George Christensen, Greg Lloyd, and Chris Hinton.

After football, Bakken was hired as director of external relations at the University of Wisconsin’s athletic department until he retired. He was a seven-time Wisconsin State Masters Handball Doubles champion (1991-97).

In 2010, probably his greatest honor was the annual trophy given to the Big-10’s best kicker, which is named the “Bakken-Andersen Kicker of the Year” award. It is co-named after former Michigan State kicker Morten Andersen, who played 25 years in the NFL with five different clubs.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...s-great-jim-bakken-named-to-hall-of-very-good

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals to retain offensive line coach Justin Frye per reports

Dec 7, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals offensive line coach Justin Frye against the Los Angeles Rams at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Arizona Cardinals are running it back with a couple of their coaches.

After we just found out that Nick Rallis will be returning as the Arizona Cardinals defensive coordinator, there are now also reports that the Cardinals will bring Justin Frye back as offensive line coach.

The #Cardinals are expected to retain Justin Frye as offensive line coach under new coach Mike LaFleur, sources tell @CBSSports.

Was hired by Jonathan Gannon last year after three seasons as the offensive line coach at Ohio State. Now expected to remain in Arizona under LaFleur. pic.twitter.com/XSUmmBDuAH

— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) February 13, 2026

This is an interesting move, and while the Arizona Cardinals did improve as the season progressed at some places along the offensive line, we saw some real growth in Isaiah Adams and Jon Gaines, and Paris Johnson Jr looks like he’s blossoming into a monster, if he can stay healthy a full season.

So, the Cardinals have questions at three of the five positions and Hjalte Froholdt did have his worst season as a Cardinal, but maybe that was due to the instability early in the season next to him.

No matter what, we have to see some improvement for fans to really believe in this move.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...-offensive-line-coach-justin-frye-per-reports

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals continue to fill out Mike LaFleur’s coaching staff

TEMPE, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 03: New Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur speaks to the media during a press conference at Dignity Health Arizona Cardinals Training Center on February 03, 2026 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Arizona Cardinals now have all of their coordinators in place, and most of their offensive coaching staff.

What remains to be seen is how defensive coordinator Nick Rallis fills out the remainder of his defensive staff over the next several weeks.

Here is what the staff for Mike LaFleur looks like.

Offensive Coordinator – Nathaniel Hackett
Defensive Coordinator – Nick Rallis
Special Teams Coordinator – Michael Ghobrial

Offensive Line Coach – Justin Frye
Wide Receivers Coach – Tony Sorrentino
Tight Ends Coach – Jake Moreland
Running Backs Coach – Matt Merritt
Quarterbacks Coach – Matt Schaub

Moreland has been a tight ends coach in the NFL since 2022 and was an assistant offensive line coach in 2021. Before that he had a long coaching career in the college ranks.

Schaub was a long-time NFL quarterback, who has only been an offensive analyst as a coach in 2023 with the Falcons.

This will be his first chance to be a position coach in the NFL.

What do you make of the staff thus far?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...inue-to-fill-out-mike-lafleurs-coaching-staff

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Cardinals Free Agency Tracker: S Coby Bryant

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 08: Hunter Henry #85 of the New England Patriots is tackled by Devon Witherspoon #21 of the Seattle Seahawks and Coby Bryant #8 of the Seattle Seahawks during the fourth quarter in Super Bowl LX at Levi's Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Arizona Cardinals need another safety. Why? Budda Baker was just named to his fifth Pro Bowl. His running mate, Jalen Thompson, is a very good safety. So, what’s the deal?

Thompson is a free agent. Yeah, bummer.

RELATED: OG DAVID EDWARDS FREE AGENT PROFILE

In 2019, the Cardinals drafted Thompson in the fifth-round. He proved his worth and inked an extension in 2022, which ran through this past season. Arizona GM Monti Ossenfort never offered another extension during the 2025 season that would have kept him in-house. However, he might sign a new deal before the free agency period that begins March 9.

This past year, Thompson had 58 total tackles with six batted passes, one sack, and zero interceptions. He is a five-year starter and has been established as one of the league’s most reliable tacklers. He missed just five tackles this year and is considered a key starter.

But unless he is signed to an extension, he is currently a free agent. This means the Cardinals must replace him either in the NFL draft or through free agency.

Arizona will need to sign a seasoned veteran to fill the open safety spot. Make no mistake, another capable body must become a roster addition this offseason.

The 2026 NFL free agency period begins March 9-11. Here is a possibility for the Cardinals.

S Coby Bryant​

Seattle Seahawks​

6’-1”, 193 pounds

Age: 26

PFF ranking: 65.5

NFL draft: 2022 Round 4, pick #109 (Seahawks)

Accolades: First Team All-American (2021), two-time First Team All-ACC (2020, 2021), Jim Thorpe Award winner (2021), Super Bowl Champion (2025)

40 time: 4.54

2025 season: 15 starts, 66 tackles, 0 QB hits, 0 sacks, 4 interceptions, 7 batted passes, 0 pressures, 0 hurries, 0 knockdowns, 4 tackles for loss, 1 forced fumble, 18 missed tackles, 17 receptions allowed

Bryant is part of a stingy Seahawks defense, but the issue in Seattle, despite just winning the Super Bowl, is that they have a lot of guys who just played in their contract year. And they can’t keep all of them. Bryant falls into this category, and it’s unlikely the Seahawks will be able to afford to keep him.

He is only 26-years old, so he has plenty of playing time ahead of him. Pro Football Focus ranked him as a top-30 safety.

Bryant is not the top safety available during this off-season, but if the Cardinals are looking for an affordable replacement that has had two solid seasons in a row, then he will fit the bill.

He is a smart player with long arms who has high-level zone awareness. Blessed with quick-twitch agility and a high football IQ. He has the ability to read the QB’s eyes and will time out his catch point jumps.

Bryant is very willing to help in run support, although he has a high number of missed tackles.

The knock on him is that he has only average speed and stiff hip transitions. He can be a bit overaggressive as well. But he is a sticky safety who is versatile.

By signing Bryant, Arizona will weaken one of its division foes.

Projection: Three-years, $36 million​

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...3/cardinals-free-agency-tracker-s-coby-bryant

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

QB the Cardinals may have an interest in remaining in school

Jan 8, 2026; Glendale, AZ, USA; Detailed view of the jersey of Mississippi Rebels quarterback Trinidad Chambliss (6) against the Miami Hurricanes during the 2026 Fiesta Bowl and semifinal game of the College Football Playoff at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The quarterback market coming out of college got another hit when Trinidad Chambliss of Ole Miss was granted an extra year of eligibility by a state judge on Thursday. Earlier, Oregon QB Dante Moore had pulled his name from consideration and announced he will remain in school another year.

The Cardinals will most likely draft a young quarterback in this year’s NFL draft, slated for April 23-25 in Pittsburgh. Which player and in what round are the unknown.

RELATED: CHAMBLISS HAS LEGAL ISSUES

Whereas Moore simply pulled out of the draft, Chambliss went back to his school by way of the court system.

Chambliss will now become a sixth-year senior. He played four seasons with Ferris State University, a D-2 program, and last year he was the starting QB for Ole Miss, and because his eligibility was up, he entered the NFL draft.

Chambliss was identified as a Day 2 draft prospect, but in a weak QB draft class, his stock could rise. He was listed as the #78 prospect, which is mid-third-round. That is where the issue began for Chambliss. According to his agent, if he remained at Ole Miss, he would blow up with NIL money and break the bank. It was assumed that his income in 2026 as a sixth-year senior playing in the SEC would probably exceed his third-round NFL contract.

Chambliss transferred to Ole Miss from Ferris State in 2025 and was expected to be their backup QB to Austin Simmons. But Simmons injured his right ankle in Week 2 against Kentucky, and in the third game against Arkansas, Chambliss was now the starter. He ended up as one of the SEC’s most dominant players as Ole Miss only lost to Georgia in Week 7 and earned a spot in the football playoffs with an 11-1-0 record.

In his lone season with Ole Miss, he showed unique qualities at the D-1 level and threw for 3,937 yards as he tossed 22 touchdowns against only three picks. Because he became a one-year wonder, his NIL prospects went through the roof.

He then petitioned the NCAA to remain in school one more year. They said no since he has played five years of college football. The NCAA denied his request to remain in school another year on January 9, 2026.

So, Chambliss filed a lawsuit.

He made claims that two of his college years while attending Ferris State should not count because he was a victim of medical illnesses regarding respiratory issues, and should have been granted a medical redshirt for a sixth season.

In court on Thursday, Judge Robert Whitwell stated that Chambliss clearly met the criteria to receive a medical redshirt and that the NCAA ignored medical evidence when it denied his waiver.

While at Ferris State, Chambliss won two National Championships in 2022 and 2024. He was named the “Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Player of the Year” following the 2024 season. At Ole Miss, he won the Conerly Trophy, given out annually to the best college football player in the State of Mississippi, and he was selected Second Team All-ACC.

Currently, the Cardinals’ QB room consists of Kyler Murray, Jacoby Brissett, and Kedon Slovis.

Possible QB prospects include:

• Round 2, pick #34 – Ty Simpson (Alabama)
• Round 3, pick #65 – Garrett Nussmeier (LSU)
• Round 4, pick #104 – Cade Klubnik (Clemson)
• Round 5, pick # 141 – Drew Allar (Penn State)
• Round 6, pick #182 – Jalon Daniels (Kansas)
• Round 7, pick #217 – Cole Payton (North Dakota State)

By comparison, Arizona DE Jordan Burch was the #78 pick in last year’s draft. He signed a four-year deal worth $6.49 million. Chambliss is expected to make between $5 – $8 million in his final year at Ole Miss.

The NCAA has stated it will appeal.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...s-may-have-an-interest-in-remaining-in-school

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals to bring back Nick Rallis as defensive coordinator

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - SEPTEMBER 25: Defenisve coordinator Nick Rallis of the Arizona Cardinals during the NFL 2025 game at State Farm Stadium on September 25, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona. The Seahawks defeated the Cardinals 23-20. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) | Getty Images

While the Arizona Cardinals continued their search for a defensive coordinator, there was always some who believed they may already have him.

Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports is reporting that the Cardinals will retain Nick Rallis as defensive coordinator.

This would be fun, since the beginning of the offseason there have been murmurs that the Arizona Cardinals could possibly, maybe, potentially hold onto Rallis as their defensive coordinator.

Now, national media is reporting it is done.

The #Cardinals are expected to retain Nick Rallis as defensive coordinator under new head coach Mike LaFleur, sources tell @CBSSports.

Was Jonathan Gannon’s DC the last three seasons. Now expected to stay in Arizona as the DC under LaFleur. https://t.co/EI3sakSzD7 pic.twitter.com/Y2AnWzuHgl

— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) February 13, 2026

Sometimes when I get these tidbits handed to me I just don’t think it’s possible, and why I usually leave them in either the comments or buried somewhere in an article, but now it is official.

However, as Uncle Jess and I have discussed before, maybe the belief is that he was so held back and required to run what Jonathan Gannon wanted done, that he can make this work this time.

What are your thoughts the Cardinals bringing Rallis back as DC?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...ing-back-nick-rallis-as-defensive-coordinator

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Cardinals Free Agency Tracker: DT John Franklin-Myers

DENVER, COLORADO - JANUARY 25: John Franklin-Myers #98 of the Denver Broncos stands on the field during the AFC Championship Playoff game between the New England Patriots and the Denver Broncos at Empower Field At Mile High on January 25, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Kara Durrette/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Arizona Cardinals are either good at defensive tackle or in trouble.

Calais Campbell is the ageless wonder and was a valuable asset last season. But he is a free agent, and so far, no negotiations are on the table to keep him in-house. So is backup L.J. Collier and PJ Mustipher.

RELATED: CARDINALS BRING BACK RALLIS AS DC

Walter Nolen was taken in Round 1 of last year’s NFL draft and performed very well when he played. But he began his rookie season on the reserve/PUP list due to a calf injury suffered before training camp, and later sustained a knee injury that landed him on IR.

And the other starter, Dalvin Tomlinson? His story is the same: from team to team, his production numbers are always below average, yet he remains employed. This past season, he had just 26 tackles and one sack. Is that worth the base salary of $5 million he was paid? That’s $192, 308 per tackle. Where is the application for that job?

If the Cardinals retain him for the final year of his contract, they will pay him $12.74 million. Yikes.

What if Cardinals GM Monti Ossenfort re-signs Campbell and then coupled him with Nolen? That would work. But every defensive line grouping has four guys that they rotate in and out all game in order to keep them fresh.

Here is a good possibility for Arizona during free agency, which begins March 9.

DT John Franklin-Myers ​

Denver Broncos​

6’-4”, 288 pounds

Age: 29

PFF rating: 80.6

NFL draft: 2018 Round 4, pick #135 (Rams)

Accolades: First Team All-Southland Conference (2016)

40 time: 4.75

2025 season: 15 starts, 25 tackles, 15 QB hits, 7.5 sacks, 6 tackles for loss, 23 pressures, 7 hurries, 8 knockdowns, 12 tackles for loss, 6 forced fumbles, 2 missed tackles, 517 snaps

Projection: Three-years, $34 million​

Franklin-Myers is the third-best defensive tackle available in this year’s free agency period. He quietly became a significant member of the Broncos’ defensive success. His 7.5 sacks are an amazing stat coming from a defensive tackle, but he is a very good pass rusher from the interior.

His pressures in the past two seasons rank #21 among all NFL defenders.

What he offers the Cardinals is an experienced player known for his high-end pass-rushing ability. He is a master at finding seams inside and getting into the backfield. He also offers versatility in that he can line up off the edge. Excellent run defender.

Franklin-Myers has a large wingspan of 82”. Super aggressive up the middle or from the corners. Powerful first step and strong for his build.

His negatives are that his technique needs to be tweaked. He also doesn’t fight with his hands or use his length to appropriately keep his offensive line counterpart off his body.

But Franklin-Myers has a great motor and would improve the Arizona defense from minute one.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...ls-free-agency-tracker-dt-john-franklin-myers

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals interview Seattle Seahawks Karl Scott for defensive coordinator

FOXBOROUGH, MA - SEPTEMBER 15: Seattle Seahawks defensive passing game coordinator / defensive backs coach Karl Scott before a game between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks on September 15, 2024, at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Arizona Cardinals defensive coordinator position has been a question since they decided to move on from Jonathan Gannon.

While we still have not heard anything on what is happening with Nick Rallis, the team has interviewed a number of potential candidates… including having just interviewed recent Super Bowl LX Champion Karl Scott, the Seahawks current defensive backs coach and defensive passing game coordinator.

The Arizona Cardinals interviewed Seattle Seahawks DB/passing game coordinator Karl Scott for their defensive coordinator position.

Scott was a vital cog in the league's top defense this past season. pic.twitter.com/9MhhIJDvYF

— PHNX Cardinals (@PHNX_Cardinals) February 12, 2026

Scott has only been a defensive coordinator once, but he has a load of experience.

• Graduate Assistant – Delta State (2007)
• Defensive Backs Coach – Tusculum College (2008-11)
• Linebacker Coach – Southeastern Louisiana (2012-13)
• Defensive Coordinator – Southeastern Louisiana (2014)
• Defensive Backs Coach – Texas Tech (2016-17)
• Defensive Backs Coach – Alabama (2018-20)
• Defensive Backs Coach – Minnesota Vikings (2021)
• Defensive Backs Coach/Passing Game Coordinator (2022-present)

Scott called plays for Southeastern Louisiana in one season for the FCS program, but also has two championships, this years Super Bowl and the 2020 National Championship with the Alabama Crimson Tide.

What would you think of the Cardinals hiring Scott as their defensive coordinator?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...seahawks-karl-scott-for-defensive-coordinator

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Cardinals Free Agency Tracker: EDGE K’Lavon Chaisson

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 08: Sam Darnold #14 of the Seattle Seahawks is pressured by K'lavon Chaisson #44 of the New England Patriots during the second quarter Super Bowl LX at Levi's Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) | Getty Images

There is a saying in the NFL: Build from the lines out.

The Arizona Cardinals need help on the offensive and defensive lines. They own the third pick in this year’s first round of the NFL draft, and with that selection will either take an offensive tackle or an EDGE rusher. That’s a pretty safe bet.

RELATED: S COBY BRYANT FREE AGENT TRACKER

This past NFL season, the Cardinals ranked #27 in the league in defense. Break that down into the #24 passing defense and the #25 rushing defense. Any way you look at it, the results weren’t good. Safety Budda Baker, DT Calais Campbell, and DE Josh Sweat were the most productive, and Campbell is now a free agent and may or may not return.

Opposite Sweat was Darius Robinson, who was taken in the first round of the 2024 NFL draft at pick #27. Does he play like a first-round draft pick? This past season, he had 43 total tackles, 5 pressures, and a single sack. He only played 507 snaps, which is 50% of all defensive plays. So, he is playing only half the time, which should explain why his stats are so pedestrian.

Behind Sweat and Robinson are Jordan Burch and Dante Stills. Last year was Burch’s rookie season after being taken in the third round, and he had 23 tackles, 8 pressures, and 1 sack. Stills was taken in Round 6 in the 2023 draft and has played well at times, and in other games, is invisible. This year, he had 34 tackles with 8 pressures and 0 sacks.

Sweat came to Arizona via free agency and proved his worth on that fat contract. He had 12 sacks, 17 QB hits, 4 forced fumbles, 28 pressures, 9 hurries, and 7 knockdowns.

The Cardinals need another productive body to bookend Sweat. During free agency, sign a guy who will get after it and enhance this defense. Somebody that won’t come cheap, but everyone will be talking about that pass-rushing tandem Arizona has.

In free agency, the best EDGE rusher available is Trey Hendrickson of the Cincinnati Bengals. He will command $21 million a year. If the Cardinals can afford that, then jump all over this freak of a pass rusher.

K'Lavon Chaisson (RDE) stuffing the run pic.twitter.com/XHFyUqoUVr

— Taylor Kyles (@tkyles39) March 14, 2025

If not, the #4 EDGE rusher is the ultra-productive K’Lavon Chaisson, who has a very good PFF rating and is still a young man. And yes, he won’t be cheap either.

EDGE K’Lavon Chaisson​

New England Patriots​

6’-3”, 255 pounds

Age: 26

PFF ranking: 73.7

NFL draft: 2020 Round 1, pick #20 (Jaguars)

Accolades: First Team All-SEC (2019), National Champion (2019)

40 time: 4.7

2025 season: 16 starts, 31 tackles, 18 QB hits, 7.5 sacks, 5 interceptions, 7 batted passes, 23 pressures, 6 hurries, 9 knockdowns, 6 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, 1 touchdown, 2 batted passes, 4 missed tackles, 33 receptions allowed, 639 defensive snaps (67%), 108 special teams snaps (26%)

Chaisson isn’t built like a lot of EDGE rushers who weigh around 280 pounds, but he has very good speed and is quick right off the snap. Signing him would help revitalize the Cardinals’ pass rush.

RDE K'Lavon Chaisson's 2024 sacks pic.twitter.com/OBpFzjBHes

— Taylor Kyles (@tkyles39) March 13, 2025

He is good on kickoff teams as well, so he comes with special teams value. Great inside move that gets him into the backfield.

Explosiveness would be a good word to describe him. Chaisson uses his linear speed and change of direction. This trait permits him to also be a potent stunt rusher and turn to a pursuit defender very quickly. Good run stopper. He can keep his feet moving while engaged and wrapping up runners.

Chaisson’s negatives are that he can struggle to shed blocks on occasion, depending on the offensive tackle. He is a good tackler, but will miss sporadically, but had just four missed tackles this past season. He has good athletic skills and the speed needed to recover.

He was paid just $3 million on a one-year deal with the Patriots, but with his good production in 2025 with 7.5 sacks, 18 QB hits, and 23 pressures, his income is about to rise.

Projection: Three-years, $26 million​

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...nals-free-agency-tracker-edge-klavon-chaisson

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals beef up offensive line in post Super Bowl 2026 NFL Mock Draft

Jan 8, 2026; Glendale, AZ, USA; Miami Hurricanes offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa (61) against the Mississippi Rebels during the 2026 Fiesta Bowl and semifinal game of the College Football Playoff at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Happy Thursday one and all.

The Arizona Cardinals and the rest of the NFL are now chasing the Seattle Seahawks, which is even more of a problem for the Cardinals when you consider the Seahawks are in their division and have owned the Cardinals for nearly a decade.

So, how do the Cardinals get back into contention?

PFF dropped their first post Super Bowel 2026 NFL Mock Draft and has the Arizona Cardinals beefing up their offensive line.

3. Arizona Cardinals: T Francis Mauigoa, Miami (FL)​

Paris Johnson Jr. is entrenched as Arizona’s long-term answer at left tackle, but the Cardinals need to find a new right tackle. Mauigoa fits the bill after starting in that spot for all three of his seasons with Miami. His 87.0 PFF pass-blocking grade this season ranked sixth among FBS tackles.

Mauigoa and PJJ would give them potentially elite tackle bookends, and an answer for Mike LaFleur’s offense, but can the Cardinals afford to potentially pass on the top defensive talent?

What are your thoughts on adding Mauigoa?

The top two picks:

1. Raiders – Fernando Mendoza, QB
2. Jets – Arvell Reese, LB

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/n...e-line-in-post-super-bowl-2026-nfl-mock-draft

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals linked to new quarterback name

Sep 28, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Tyson Bagent (17) warms up prior to the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images | Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

The Arizona Cardinals are in a flux, and the biggest question that needs to be answered is who will be the quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals in 2026?

The options on the roster right now are Kyler Murray (likely to be traded/cut), Jacoby Brissett (trade candidate?), and Kedon Slovis (a backup at best).

So, who is running Mike LaFleur’s offense in year one? A new name has appeared in the rumor mill for the first time and it is not one we have heard.

From local insider John Gambadoro:

Have heard the Cardinals are intrigued by Bears backup QB Tyson Bagent. He has one-year left on his deal so would have to trade for him. Grew up in Martinsburg, West Virginia and went to Shepherd University. Was an undrafted free-agent who beat out PJ Walker for the backup job…

— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) February 17, 2026

Bagent in his time with the Bears has not been very good, he is 2-2 in his four starts, with 859 yards, three touchdowns and six interceptions, with 109 yards rushing nad two rushing touchdowns as well.

Bagent would have to be traded for, unfortunately Gambo is slightly off, as his extension that he signed with the Bears last year kicks in this season, meaning he would be under contract for $10 million for two season with the Cardinals.

Would you want to trade a day three pick for Tyson Bagent?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/n...-trade-quarterback-tyson-bagent-chicago-bears

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Grade the Arizona Cardinals coordinator hires

Jul 24, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive coordinator Nick Rallis during training camp at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

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.

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The Arizona Cardinals coaching staff is coming together and we can debate how the full staff looks, but the main question for right now is this…

How would you grade the Arizona Cardinals coordinators hirings?

Just a refresh.

Offensive Coordinator – Nathaniel Hackett: Offensive Coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars (2016-18), Green Bay Packers (2019-2021), Denver Broncos Head Coach (2021), New York Jets Offensive Coordinator (2023-2024)

Defensive Coordinator – Nick Rallis: Arizona Cardinals Defensive Coordinator (2023-present)

Special Teams Coordinator – Michael Ghobrial: New York Giants Special Teams Coordinator (2024-25)

So, Hackett is a known commodity with a lot of experience, but his success has not been great since he left Green Bay with LaFleur’s brother, Matt.

Rallis has only the Cardinals experience as a coordinator and has never had a top 20 defense, but he will be the guy for the first time, no Jonathan Gannon over his shoulder.

Ghobrial has a couple years with the Giants as a coordinator, and has bounced around before that, but his success the last two years was not bad and he improved year over year.

What are your grades for the coordinator hires?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/n...ick-rallis-nathaniel-hackett-michael-ghobrial

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals hire experienced college defensive coordinator to be new defensive line coach

11. (tie) Pete Kwiatkowski, Texas defensive coordinator, $1.7 million.

The Arizona Cardinals are dipping into the college football market once again for the new defensive line coach. However this one couldn’t be different from the last one.

The Arizona Cardinals are hiring Pete Kwiatkowski, the former University of Texas defensive coordinator.

Former University of Texas defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski is the new defensive line coach for the Arizona Cardinals.

Kwiatkowski had a top 15 run defense in the nation this past season with the Longhorns. pic.twitter.com/kUjY2Mi3pu

— PHNX Cardinals (@PHNX_Cardinals) February 18, 2026

Kwiatkowski has been in the college game for a long, long time. He started in 1988 at his Alma mater Boise State, but his first DC gig was 2000-2005 at Montane State.

From there he was DC at Boise State from 2010-2013, Washington from 2014-2020 and then at Texas from 2021 to last year.

Was Budda Baker’s DC in college. Been doing it at a high level for a long time. https://t.co/WWyRigpzlH

— At a Football Game (@SCoxFB) February 18, 2026

So, bringing him in as a line coach, where he cut his teeth over the years makes some sense.

It is an interesting hire for Nick Rallis.

Kwiatkowsk is a grizzled veteran coordinator coming into a young, mostly unproven staff, so will he be the voice of experience, even if this is his first venture into the pro ranks?

What are your thoughts on the hire of Kwiatkowsk as defensive line coach?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...ve-coordinator-to-be-new-defensive-line-coach

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Cardinals Free Agency Tracker: S Reed Blankenship

LANDOVER, MARYLAND - DECEMBER 20: Reed Blankenship #32 of the Philadelphia Eagles reacts as he runs off the field following an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders at Northwest Stadium on December 20, 2025 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images) | Getty Images

There is a saying in the NFL: You can never have too many great defensive backs.

The safety position of the Arizona Cardinals has been a defensive strength. However, part of the tandem is now in free agency. Budda Baker went to another Pro Bowl this year, while Jalen Thompson has gone to the free agent list.

Will GM Monti Ossenfort re-sign him before March 9? If so, that solves a ton of issues. If not, a huge hole is now glaring from center field.

RELATED: FREE AGENCY TRACKER SAFETY COBY BRYANT

Currently, the safety room consists of Kitan Crawford, Dadrion Taylor-Demerson, Joey Blount, and Baker. Dadrion Taylor-Demerson has played in 29 games, but most of his snaps are on special teams. Blount has been in 38 NFL games with zero starts but has 648 special teams snaps in his three years in Tempe. Crawford was a rookie last season, but played in 15 games with 80% special teams snaps and 14% on defense.

We are excited to welcome Eagles S and defending Super Bowl Champ @reedus99_reed to the #A1Family! pic.twitter.com/zCUIO1jZB7

— Athletes First (@AthletesFirst) September 2, 2025

This means the backups are getting their feet wet and being developed. Does that correlate to replacing Thompson on the regular defense? Or should Arizona bring in a seasoned veteran during free agency?

Blankenship is not a reclamation project or a development talent. Just plug and play. In the 2024 playoffs that ended with a Super Bowl win, Blankenship was a defensive force, logging 27 tackles (18 solo), one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery.

S Reed Blankenship​

Philadelphia Eagles​

6’-1”, 203 pounds

Age: 26

PFF ranking: 46.5

NFL draft: 2022 undrafted

Accolades: First Team All-Conference USA (2021), Super Bowl Champion (2024)

40 time: 4.55

2025 season: 16 starts, 83 tackles, 0 QB hits, 0 sacks, 1 interception, 0 pressures, 0 hurries, 0 knockdowns, 1 tackle for loss, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, 4 batted passes, 10 missed tackles, 1,008 defensive snaps (95%), 22 special teams snaps (5%)

———————————————————————————

The Cardinals might opt to sign Blankenship to play opposite Budda Baker. Thompson will be missed if he isn’t re-signed, but there are options to replace him.

Blankenship has started the past three years with the Eagles with productive play. In 2023, he had 113 tackles. This past year, is coming off an unusually down season, mainly because the focus was placed more on the linebackers instead of relying on the safeties to bring ballcarriers down.

He is a hitter and is a willing tackler. He can deliver the big hit and has interceptions during his time with Philly. Great instincts and anticipation. Blankenship will transition well from coverage to closing on the runner. Plays fast with quick reactions.

Blankenship was with current Cardinals defensive coordinator Nick Rallis in Philly during his rookie season, and he’s a fit for Arizona’s foundational two-high coverages. Blankenship also gets the most out of his abilities and is still a young man.

He is very good in zone, but not good in man coverage. He does lack the timed speed to mirror and maintain contact with his receiver or tight end downfield. But he is a ballhawk and has quick reactions for interceptions.

He was paid $1.45 million last year.

Projection: Three-years, $32.6 million​

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...dinals-free-agency-tracker-s-reed-blankenship

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Cardinals tied for lowest 2026 Early NFL Win Totals

Arizona Cardinals new head coach Mike LaFleur at a news conference on Feb. 3, 2026, at Arizona Cardinals training center in Tempe. | Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Arizona Cardinals are bad.

We know that, they won three games in 2025, they pick third overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, they have a semi-new coaching regime, with a new head coach, offensive and special teams coordinators, but a lot of returning positions coaches.

They have no quarterback, and not exactly a stellar market to attain one that is going to help them make a leap.

So, when DraftKings Sportsbook released their 2026 NFL Win Totals, it was not a shock to see the Arizona Cardinals at the bottom of not only the NFC West, not just the NFC, but the NFL.

In fact, the Arizona Cardinals 4.5-wins total is tied for the lowest in the NFL with a team in an eerily similar situation, who is allegedly vying for the same backup quarterback to be their franchise savior… the Miami Dolphins. Both teams are linked heavily to Green Bay Packers backup Malik Willis.

Here is the NFC West Early total wins odds for 2026:

• Seattle Seahawks 10.5 — -130/+110 (over 10.5 wins will give you -130 odds, under +110)
• Los Angeles Rams 10.5 — -140/+115
• San Francisco 49ers 10.5 — +125/-150
• Arizona Cardinals 4.5 — -110/-110

So, everyone else in the division is actually among the tops in the NFL, while the Cardinals are the worst in the NFL.

An uphill battle to prove people wrong starts early.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/nfl-news/88006/2026-nfl-win-totals-odds

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals beef up offensive line in new 2026 NFL Mock Draft

Jan 8, 2026; Glendale, AZ, USA; Miami Hurricanes offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa (61) against the Mississippi Rebels during the 2026 Fiesta Bowl and semifinal game of the College Football Playoff at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Happy Friday one and all.

The Arizona Cardinals have a lot of question marks heading into the offseason and the 2026 NFL Draft will be a chance to change some perceptions.

My buddy Charles McDonald and his running mate Nate Tice had a new 2026 NFL Mock Draft on Yahoo! Sports and have the Cardinals adding offensive line talent.

3. Arizona Cardinals — Francis Mauigoa, OT/OG, Miami​

The Cardinals have question marks at quarterback under new head coach Mike LaFleur, and could feasibly draft just about any position here and it would make sense given the state of their roster. Other players in this class might rise as pure offensive tackles, but Mauigoa has earned the right for a chance at right tackle at the next level. Mauigoa is a mauling run blocker with clean technique who seldom gets caught out of position. Whether he ends up at right tackle or kicks inside to guard, he is a great fit for a Cardinals team that desperately needs more talent up front to complement left tackle Paris Johnson Jr., who has shown flashes of future stardom but got caught up in this franchise’s messiness.

Boring, but makes sense. When you look at the Cardinals offseason needs, fixing their offensive line is a big portion of it.

What would you make of it?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/n...-up-offensive-line-in-new-2026-nfl-mock-draft