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[Arizona Cardinals]

The Cardinals’ Rabbit running with “big ole wooly mammoths”

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Safety Dadrion Taylor-Demerson had this to say about the Cardinals’ new look defensive line

Arizona Cardinals’ second year safety Dadrion Taylor-Emerson, aka “Rabbit,” recently had a tremendously informative and entertaining interview with Dan Bickley and Vince Marotta of Arizona Sports Radio. This is so good, you really ought to hear it:

Cardinals safety Dadrion "Rabbit" Taylor-Demerson told @Bickley_Marotta that the revamped DL looks "like big ole woolly mammoths out there."

Honestly, he's not wrong.

Full interview: https://t.co/pD8VyX1LyL

— Tyler Drake (@Tdrake4sports) June 13, 2025​

Perhaps the highlights of the show occurred when Rabbit was asked to offer his thoughts about the Cardinals new look defensive line and without blinking Rabbit exclaimed:

“They look like big ole woolly mammoths out there!”

Cardinals’ 2025 defensive front pf players 6-3+:

• ED Josh Sweat —- 6-5, 265

Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

• DE Calais Campbell —- 6-8, 307

Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

• DT Dalvin Tomlinson —- 6-3, 325

Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

• DE Dante Stills —- 6-4, 286

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

• DT Walter Nolen III —- 6-4, 296

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

• DE Darius Robinson —- 6-5, 285

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

• ED Zaven Collins —- 6-4, 260

Matt Kartozian-Imagn Images

• ED Jordan Burch —- 6-4, 279

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

• DT Bilal Nichols —- 6-3, 313

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

• DT Justin Jones —- 6-3, 309

Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

• ED Baron Browning —- 6-3, 240

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

And while he is not 6-3+, one of the standouts of the Cardinals pre-season is this college free agent Volunteer:

• NT Elijah Simmons —- 6-1, 334

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Here is a woolly mammoth talking up a woolly warthog.

"He's getting a lot of reps...a lot of reps with the 1s...take advantage of it...he's a BIG BOY."

Calais Campbell on the opportunity at hand for undrafted rookie NT Elijah Simmons. pic.twitter.com/KdPYGKvp3Q

— PHNX Cardinals (@PHNX_Cardinals) June 12, 2025​

Elijah Simmons, impressive NT https://t.co/Lsr6hstwE4

— Walter B J Mitchell (@WBJMItch) May 29, 2025​

They’re bbbbaaaacccckkkk!

Woolly Mammoths could be 'de-extinct' in 2 years https://t.co/fFvI8vdU9K pic.twitter.com/PJhauKlrsI

— USA TODAY (@USATODAY) February 18, 2017​

That’s right, woolly mammoths are roaming the turf in Arizona, as we speak!

So that this guy and his teammates can play “wild and woolly” football in 2025!

Did you see how he outfoxed Yosemite Sam?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2...ls-rabbit-running-with-big-ole-wooly-mammoths

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Happy Father’s Day from Revenge of the Birds

Hope all of you dads out there have a great day.

Happy Father’s Day one and all from Revenge of the Birds.

I was fortunate enough, maybe unfortunate, to have season tickets as a kid with my dad from 1995 to 1998 for the Arizona Cardinals.

Every Sunday dad and I would head down to Sun Devil Stadium for a game, we’d grab a quick bite to eat on our way in and then battle the heat in the south end zone.

It was crazy every week. Despite the terrible product on the field, the south end zone was like a family.

I remember vividly a game against the Washington in December of 1997 where dad and the fans around me protected me, then an 11 year old, from a fight that broke out between Skins fans and Cards fans.

They moved my dad and I down to the aisle, almost shielding us from the drunken melee, to make sure I was safe, while at the same time rocking that poor Washington fan.

The shielding was the same a year later, as a 12 year old watching Chris Jacke’s field goal sail through the uprights sending the Arizona Cardinals to the playoffs for the first time in the valley.

The fans understandably rushed the field, but our section made sure before the euphoria, dad got me out of there safely.

That’s why the Cardinals mean so much to me.

My dad started me on the sickness, now, 30 years later, I have five kids, four of them boys, who followed me down the rabbit hole.

I’ll have three in tackle football this year, one who finished his football career and is now pursuing playing baseball and all of them sporting Cardinals jerseys for Sunday’s, along with my wife and daughter.

It’s an unfortunate disease that gets passed along. Some enjoy it more than others, but they all love Sundays.

It’s about football, it’s about family and it’s about creating a lasting bond.

That’s what the Arizona Cardinals means for me, what about you?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2025/6/15/24449684/happy-fathers-day-from-revenge-of-the-birds

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Analysis of Chris Simms’ 2025 Top 10 NFL QBs

Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

What adjustments do Kyler Murray need to make to be a Top 10 NFL QB in 2025?

First off, I am a fan of Chris Simms’ due diligence in watching and breaking down copious reels of NFL game films. While I occasionally do not concur with some aspects of his evaluations and rankings, I fully appreciate how Simms’ analyses and rankings provoke and stimulate healthy and robust conversations among NFL pundits and fans.

Recent case in point:

2025 QB Countdown is complete. Here are the Top 10 rankings. The top tier especially might be the best we've ever had at one time in NFL history. pic.twitter.com/ZPaSLfxSsx

— Chris Simms (@CSimmsQB) June 10, 2025​

When I first perused this list, a general feel of “what if” was haunting me.

1. During the 2017 NFL Draft, what if Steve Keim had made a convincing enough offer to move up from #13 to the Bills’ pick at #10 to select QB Patrick Mahomes, Texas Tech. It would have cost the Cardinals their 2017 picks #13 and #77, plus their 2018 1st round pick. And Mahomes could have been groomed by Bruce Arians as the heir to Carson Palmer.
2. During the 2018 NFL Draft, what if Steve Keim had traded up to #7 with the Bucs ahead of the Bills or had he stayed at pick #15 and drafted Lamar Jackson instead of trading up with the raiders to take Josh Rosen at #10 and giving the Raiders picks #15 , #79 and #152.

Thus, the Cardinals’ 2018 draft may have looked this this:

15. Lamar Jackson, QB, Louisville

47. Christian Kirk, WR, Texas A&M

79. Orlando Brown, Jr., T, Oklahoma

97. Mason Cole, C, Michigan

134. Chase Edmonds, RB, Fordham

152. Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, ED, Oklahoma

I get it —- what ifs at this point are fruitless —- but for those of us who were pounding the table for Josh Allen, Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson (and we have plenty of proof of that it in the ROTB archives) —- those frustrations linger.

As for Simms’ list —-

Seeing as what ifs were back then and this is right now, what we Cardinals’ fans have to hope for is that Kyler Murray crack the Simms’ 2026 Top 10 NFL QBs. Do you notice that 3 of Simms’ current Top 10 QB were at one time coached by Kliff Kingsbury?

How sweet it would be at last to see Kyler Murray ranked above all other NFC West QBs after this season. Only Matthew Stafford appears in this year’s Simms’ Top 10.

Last year, Chris Simms had Kyler Murray ranked #16 in his “Sold starter, but...” tier. Simm’s main claim is that “all of Kyler’s issues are pocket related.”

Chris Simms’ evaluation of Kyler is right on the money. Take the time to watch. Simms mentions one aspect of Kyler’s throwing mechanics that have concerned many of us —- his baseball wind-up —- which in the NFL often makes the difference, time-wise, of missing out on big-time connections downfield, because of the added half a second or full second that is lost. The defensive recovery speed in the NFL is elite. It would be great to see Kyler hold the ball up near his chin and whenever possible throw it with a quicker, tighter release. The thing is —-

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

By holding the ball lower in an attempt to be able to take his arm straight back into a wind-up, Kyler makes himself even smaller in the pocket.

The higher the football, the quicker the release.

Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Who has the better, quicker, stronger release: Kyler Murray or Baker Mayfield?

How does Kyler’s release compare to this guy’s?

Look at how other QBs “tee the ball up” —- can make a huge difference.

Kyler Murray’s 2025 rankings:

PFF:

PFF Quarterback Rankings: All 32 starters ahead of the 2025 NFL season

15. Kyler Murray, Arizona Cardinals​

After multiple injury-plagued seasons, Murray finally stayed healthy in 2024 and delivered an 82.1 overall grade. If he can avoid the injury bug again in 2025, Murray is well-positioned to take another step forward in Year 3 under head coach Jonathan Gannon and offensive coordinator Drew Petzing.

• Stafford —- #7
• Purdy —- #11
• Murray —- #15
• Darnold —- #26

CBS Sports:

Post-draft 2025 NFL QB Power Rankings: Commanders’ Jayden Daniels, Eagles’ Jalen Hurts lead the way - CBSSports.com

23. Kyler Murray, Arizona Cardinals ​

He can scurry around like few others, and he can rifle it deep fairly well. Entering Year 7 as the Cardinals’ former No. 1 pick, however, Murray’s yet to prove he can be truly steady through the air.

• Stafford —- #7
• Purdy —- #10
• Darnold —- #22
• Murray —- #23

ROTB Question: Can and will Kyler Murray make adjustments to his throwing motion and to his pocket patience? What do you think?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2025/6/16/24450171/analysis-of-chris-simms-2025-top-10-nfl-qbs

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Cardinals’ offense needs more quick releases from Kyler Murray

Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images

Especially given the size of his main targets

Yesterday, with an assist from Chris Simms, we analyzed and discussed Kyler Murray’s baseball windup type of throws and how it would be a good idea if he can tighten up his release in order to get the ball out of the pocket more quickly and accurately.

The thing is —- Kyler has a quick release in his passing bag of tricks.

Cases in point:

Pinpoint TD laser to TE Dan Arnold.

82 days until #AZCardinals football. #BirdGang pic.twitter.com/kndydsfvxk

— SleeperCardinals (@SleeperAZCards) June 17, 2025​

Pinpoint quick slant TD to slot WR Greg Dortch.

83 days until #AZCardinals football. #BirdGang pic.twitter.com/Plr9VgNivu

— SleeperCardinals (@SleeperAZCards) June 16, 2025​

Pinpoint laser TD to TE Zach Ertz.

86 days until #AZCardinals football #BirdGang pic.twitter.com/xYFE3Znq9l

— SleeperCardinals (@SleeperAZCards) June 13, 2025​

Precise quick fade TD to Marvin Harrison Jr.

Kyler Murray Has A Message For Everyone… pic.twitter.com/3DPWQKoCzT

— Kiz Mxre (@CardinalsNewEra) June 1, 2025​

On all four TDs made from the pocket, notice how compact and precise Kyler’s throwing motion is.

What should make Kyler all the more eager to employ a compact delivery is the impressive size of his 2025 targets:

• TE Trey McBride —- 6-4, 246
• WR Marvin Harrison Jr. —- 6-3, 209
• WR Michael Wilson —- 6-2, 213
• TE Elijah Higgins —- 6-3, 235
• TE Tip Reiman —- 6-5, 271
• WR Simi Fehoko —- 6-4, 218
• WR Zay Jones —- 6-2, 200
• WR Tejhaun Palmer —- 6-1, 210
• WR Xavier Weaver —- 6-1, 169
• WR Bryson Green, 6-1, 207
• TE Travis Vokolek —- 6-6, 260
• TE Josiah Deguara —-6-2, 238

As for Greg Dortch, when Kyler Murray snaps off a tight, compact dart on time, Dortch is the Torch.

We are now Greg Dortch days away from the 2025 NFL Draft https://t.co/Y4J8ySvbq5

— Andy Kwong (@akwong31) April 20, 2025​

When Kyler Murray gets his feet planted squarely in the pocket, with the ball teed up, instead of teed down, and he snaps his throws from a compact release, he is at his best.

Trust it more, K1!

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2...e-needs-more-quick-releases-from-kyler-murray

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Cardinals mishandled Isaiah Simmons: 10 reasons why (Op/Ed)

Photo by Ryan Kang/Getty Images

Reason 1: Isaiah shouldn’t have been the Cardinals’ 2020 1st round pick

Note: for those of you who have expressed your disapproval for ROTB articles involving former Cardinals or opinion-based threads, this long article (2 days to write) is not for you.

Cardinals mishandled Isaiah Simmons: 10 reasons why​

In a recent SI article by Donnie Druin, Isaiah Simmons, who was signed to a 1-year deal by the Packers this off-season, expressed appreciation for his new DC, Jeff Hafley, for giving him one specific role to try to “get really good at one thing first,”

Isaiah added, “That’s something I really appreciate because I never really had that opportunity to really just hone in on one position. It’s hard enough to get into the NFL let alone stay, as well as be effective at a position, so just being able to lock in on one thing and do that 1/11 every day, I mean that’s been - I feel like - huge for me.”

As Donnie Druin aptly points out, “According to Pro Football Focus, Simmons logged snaps at the following positions in Arizona:

Edge defender, off-ball linebacker, strong safety, free safety, slot defender and boundary cornerback.”

Here is the full SI article:

Former First-Round Pick Takes Dig at Arizona Cardinals (si.com)

If this was indeed Isaiah taking a “dig” at the Cardinals, man, in my opinion, he let the Cardinals off easy.

10 ways in which the Cardinals mishandled Isaiah Simmons

• Reason 1: Isaiah should not have been the Cardinals’ 2020 1st round pick.

There were three players the Cardinals were heavily targeting at pick #8 in the 2020 NFL Draft:

1. DT Derrick Brown, Auburn
2. T Tristan Wirfs, Iowa
3. WR CeeDee Lamb, Oklahoma

Truth is, none of the most popular NFL pundits legitimately thought that Isaiah Simmons, with these stellar college credentials, would still be on the board at pick #8:

• CFP national champion (2018)
• Butkus Award (college) (2019)
• Unanimous All-American (2019)
• ACC Defensive Player of the Year (2019)

When the Panthers selected Derrick Brown at #7, one pick ahead of the Cardinals at #8, Steve Keim had a whole 10 minutes to consider scrapping his top targets to go with the Clemson defensive superstar instead.

But —- what Keim could not possibly do in 10 minutes is devise the best specific plan for a unicorn like Simmons —- AND —- have the team’s DC, Vance Jospeh, be fully committed to whatever that plan would be.

What Mel Kiper said that night about Isaiah Simmons turned out to be prophetic —- “the team that selects Isaiah Simmons has to have a specific plan for him.”

2. From day one, Steve Keim projected that Isaiah Simmons would play WILB.

We ROTB members KNEW from the get-go that WILB would not be the most suitable NFL position for Isaiah Simmons. If we KNEW it, why then didn’t Steve Keim, Vance Joseph or Billy Davis?

3. One of the worst scenarios for Isaiah Simmons was being drafted in a COVID year.

If you have studied Isaiah Simmons’ background, you would know that his success at Clemson was largely due to the daily individual attention that DC Brent Venables paid to him in detailing (in classroom tutorials) and repping (on the field) all of Isaiah’s assignments for days on end before each game.

For Isaiah, as a new member of the Cardinals, having to adjust his game to a position that was not his primary position in college was critically hampered by remote, off the field zoom position group meetings.

4. In his very first game as a pro, Vance Joseph benched him.

Jospeh assigned IS to cover 49ers’ RB Raheem Mostert man-to-man with a FS blitz that vacated the deep middle.

Mostert faked an out route and pivoted into the middle on a circle route. Isaiah bit just a tad on the out route but then got beat over the middle. Without a free safety, Mostert sprinted at 4.38 speed to a 58-yard TD.

Comparatively, for example, Kyler Murray’s first half as a pro was so awful that Kliff Kingsbury wondered at halftime whether he would be fired —- yet, thank goodness, Kliff never benched him.

Some players can emotionally handle being yo-yoed in and out of the game better than others. Isaiah Simmons is not, and will never be, that type of player.

5. Two weeks after Isaiah played one of his best games ever in helping the Cardinals beat the Cowboys in Dallas, Vance Joseph benched him and Zaven Collins for the Cardinals’ playoff game versus the Rams.

Had the Cardinals not won this late-season game versus the playoff-bound Cowboys, they may not have made the playoffs themselves. Isaiah made one of the most impressive athletic plays of the season in a critical 4th quarter stop when he beat the tackle off the edge which caused Dak Prescott to have to step up into the pocket and then Isaiah pivoted on a dime straight down through the pocket to sack Dak from behind.

6. Vance Joseph’s coverage assignments for Isaiah when the DC moved him out of WILB to become the team’s slot CB were overwhelming and unreasonable.

First off, how many 6-4, 236-pound NFL players are employed as slot CBs? While Isaiah has sub 4.4 speed, at his size he is going to struggle covering smaller, shiftier WRs. Tight ends and taller WRs are much more made to order for Isaiah.

Can you ever forget the game the Cardinals lost to the Chargers at home in 2022 when Justin Herbert, down 7, marched the offense to a game winning TD and 2-point conversion? In that stretch, there was a sequence when Isaiah was asked to cover a quick slot WR, a Pro Bowl TE and a speedy RB on three consecutive plays. I had never seen anything like it. And with good reason, because think of the mental and physical adjustments that Isaiah Simmons had to make to cover each one, while also having to play the run.

7. Had Kliff Kingsbury been given the normal power and autonomy that an NFL head coach is normally afforded, Isaiah Simmons would very likely have been treated more favorably.

Head coaches have the wherewithal and autonomy to make sure that top draft picks are given the opportunity to play through learning curves, much the way Kliff did with Kyler Murray. Kliff Kingsbury was the coach that Isaiah Simmons bonded with more than any other. When rumors of Oklahoma’s interest in hiring Kliff to succeed Lincoln Riley emerged in December of 2021, Isaiah Simmons was one of the very first Cardinals’ player to text Kliff something to the effect of “please say it isn't so, Coach.”

But Kliff was never in a position to tell Vance Joseph what to do or how to use his players. Kliff had issues with Vance Joseph early on to the point where he was asking Michael Bidwill and Steve Keim to hire a new DC. As was the case later on when Kliff asked Bidwill to fire OL coach Sean Kugler, Bidwill refused.

The irony is that one of the main reasons why Bidwill hired Steve Wilks as head coach was to do a much-needed job of motivating “players with different personalities.” To a commendable degree, Steve Wilks was successful motivating 1st round picks D.J. Humphries and Robert Nkemdiche.

If you know and understand Isaiah Simmons’ personality and learning style, there’s the reason why Isaiah gravitated to Kliff Kingsbury and not Vance Joseph.

8. Landing with the Cardinals and being tabbed as an ILB was one of the worst actualities for Isaiah Simmons.

All one has to do is look at the way Joseph and LB coach Billy Davis handled all of their ILBs, which included 1st round picks Haason Reddick, Isaiah Simmons and Zaven Collins. The only ILB that Joseph and Davis committed to was Jordan Hicks, whom Davis had coached during Hicks’ rookie year in Philadelphia.

But look at the unconventional way in which Joseph and Davis coached Hicks to basically let running backs come to him 5 yards beyond the line of scrimmage, rather than vice versa. And one of the major reasons why Joseph played so many zones was to cover for Hicks’ liability in man coverage, particularly in covering a RB out pass or, even worse, a RB wheel route.

Joseph and Davis also managed to turn off D’Vondre Campbell, who would leave for the Packers and deliver two All-Pro ILB seasons back-to back. And let’s not forget what Joseph and Davis got out of their next prized free agent ILB signing, Zach Vigil.

The PFF irony is that the two highest ILB grades that Vance Joseph got in his 4 seasons as DC were: 67.9 from Isaiah Simmons in 2022 and 66.5 from Zaven Collins in 2021 —- both of whom Joseph decided to bench in the Cardinals playoff game versus the Rams.

9. When Jonathan Gannon came in 2023, did he have a specific plan for Isaiah Simmons?

One would have thought that during the Eagles’ nail-biting 20-17 win over the Cardinals just a few months prior to Gannon being hired in Arizona, a strong argument can be made that by virtue of Isaiah’s 13 tackles, 2 QB hurries and giving up a mere 33 yards in pass coverage, he was the most outstanding defensive player of the game.

Yet, Gannon’s only reported plan for Isaiah from the get-go was to ask him what position he wanted to play. While the Cardinals had been lacking a good deep safety in pass coverage, moving Isaiah to free safety was absurd given that the Cardinals’ two best players were Budda Baker and Jalen Thompson.

A key context to this scenario was Gannon’s plan to move Zaven Collins to SOLB. Curious because in 2022 Isaiah Simmons had the highest pass rushing grade on the team at 83.5 and Collins was coming off a 100 tackles season at MIKE, with a team-leading 37 stops.

The obvious move was to play Isaiah Simmons at SOLB —- keep Zaven Collins at MIKE —- play Kyzir White at WILB coming off his best season as pro at that WILB position in Philadelphia —- and run a WOLB platoon with Dennis Gardeck and 2nd round pick B.J. Ojulari. Gannon’s tandem of ILBs Kyzir White and Josh Woods graded 58.9 and 31.8 respectively, with White landing on the IR and missing 7 games.

The question that has been a nagging at me perhaps more than any other —- how is it that Gannon enters the door embracing Kyler Murray and, as a defensive coach, isn’t at least equally embracing of Isaiah Simmons?

Isaiah Simmons had never divided the locker room. He was coming off the 2022 season as the Cardinals’ 4th highest graded defender (500+ snaps):

1. Budda Baker —- 73.7
2. Zach Allen —- 72.7
3. JJ Watt —- 68.3
4. Isaiah Simmons —- 67.9

By the middle of June, the Cardinals decided not to give Isaiah Simmons a 5th year option.

10. Trading Isaiah Simmons to the Giants for a 7th round pick was not only a shameful decision, it did very little to make the team better.

On the first play of the pre-season game versus the Chiefs, Isaiah Simmons, starting at free safety, laid the wood on a slant pass from QB Patrick Mahomes to WR Justin Watson—- BA BOOM! Yet, despite what looked to be a legitimate hit on Watson, Isaiah was flagged for unnecessary roughness.

We have seen Isaiah Simmons lay the wood on other opponents, like the time he stopped 49ers’ QB Trey Lance on the 1-inch line.

The fact that Isaiah was eager and willing to make a big statement-type hit like that in a mere pre-season game while playing with 2nd stringers versus the Chiefs’ starters speaks volumes to his football character.

That play was Isaiah’s first significant frustration of the night. If you have played free safety before, you know very well howe so many plays are designed to freeze the safety in what some would call “no man’s land.”

Isaiah got caught a few times in no man’s land and by the time he made such little effort to tackle a Chiefs ball carrier near the goal line, his head was spinning.

His lack of effort to make that tackle looked bad. No question.

But that incident was an anomaly. If anything, Isaiah Simmons is more apt to be too aggressive than passive, ask Cam Newton.

Some will argue that Monti Ossenfort and Jonathan Gannon took full advantage of the situation by making a clear statement to the team that they won’t tolerate anything but 100% effort at all times.

Yet, why then did they choose to hold on to CB Antonio Hamilton Sr. who make zero effort in 2022 to tackle a player in a real game? Hamilton was a liability as tackler for them as well in 2023. His missed tackle rate was 16.3, even worse than Marco Wilson’s 15%.

How about Sean Murphy-Bunting, MOJO’s prize UFA 3-year $25.5M CB? His tackling last season was absolutely pitiful. Tackling grade: 29.4. Missed tackle rate 22.5%. Look at this tackling effort in OT versus the Panthers with the game and playoffs on the line:

Chuba Hubbard

2024 DREAM Workload (Among RBs)
- 73 Total High Value Touches (RB4)
- 30 Green Zone Touches (RB4)
- 77% Snaps Played (RB3)
- 46 Catches (RB6)

That is a BLUEPRINT for Elite RBs…

In 2025
- CAR Offense Improving
- Dowdle Backup

RB19 ADP!?pic.twitter.com/Uc8QGVfoSa

— Joe Orrico (@JoeOrricoFF) June 16, 2025​

What the Cardinals could and should have done is try to coach Isaiah Simmons through that anomaly. For three reasons: (1) so that he can help the team in multiple ways (this just in —- it makes coaches look really good when they coach players through struggles); (2) so that with a couple of strong, bounce-back performances in the next 2 pre-season games, the Cardinals could have gotten way more than a 7th round pick, if they still wanted to trade him; (3) so that if and when he would leave as a free agent, they could possibly get a 2024 compensatory pick.

For Isaiah, being traded to the Giants was a mixed blessing. The less than ideal part was going to a team whose 2 inside linebackers, Bobby Okereke and Micah McFadden were already entrenched as starters. The most positive part was playing for DC Wink Martindale who held Isaiah in high regard and got strong play from him in sub packages. His 68.9 overall grade and 82.7 coverage grade playing for Wink were the highest of his then 4-year career. Wink wanted the Giants to re-sign Isaiah.

Last year without Wink and playing for his 5th DC in 4 years, Isaiah had his poorest season, playing a mere 181 snaps.

Conclusion:

Vance Joseph’s track record with ILBs in Arizona is proof that Isaiah Simmons was drafted by the wrong team. Steve Keim’s insistence that Isaiah Simmons would be a fit at WILB was a big mistake right from the get-go.

It would be very understandable if Isaiah Simmons was traumatized by his experience in Arizona. It would be very understandable if he felt misunderstood. Mel Kiper was correct. Isaiah Simmons, in order to hit the NFL running, was going to have land with the right team and the right coach.

Imagine, for example, if Isaiah had landed with the Ravens and into the hands of Wink Martindale from the get-go.

Look at what Wink Martindale had to say about Isaiah while he was coaching him in 2023:

His new DC, Jeff Hafley, was the head coach at Boston College during Isaiah Simmons’ stellar seasons at Clemson. Coach Haf knows Brent Venerables very well and will know how to prepare Isaiah so that he won’t have to think too much and will play super aggressive. Coach Haf already has a specific role for Isaiah at OLB, one that will focus him and not overwhelm him.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2...ishandled-isaiah-simmons-10-reasons-why-op-ed

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals draft picks make All Quarter Century Team, while one big name is snubbed

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Arizona Cardinals are represented on the NFL All Quarter Century Team.

Outrage!

That is the response at least from Arizona Cardinals fans and media when ESPN dropped their NFL All Quarter Century team, and while two players the Arizona Cardinals drafted, and two others who had short tenures with the team were included:

Alan Faneca, OG - Steelers (1998-2007), Jets (2008-09), Cardinals (2010)

One year with the Arizona Cardinals, but this dude was the best guard of the era.

Calais Campbell, DT - Cardinals (2008-16, 2025-present), Jaguars (2017-19), Ravens (2020-22), Falcons (2023), Dolphins (2024)

Campbell is back with the Cardinals, and was one of the best draft picks in team history.

J.J. Watt, DL - Texans (2011-20), Cardinals (2021-22)

Not much to say, maybe the best defensive player of the century.

Patrick Peterson, CB - Cardinals (2011-20), Vikings (2021-22), Steelers (2023)

Peterson was great in his prime, but obviously like many had issues at the end of his time in Arizona, but things seem to be patched up.

However, the one that fans seem to care about is the one that is not on the list, not on the practice squad (honorable mention) and that was Larry Fitzgerald.

So, there were eight receivers ranked above Fitz.

• Randy Moss
• Calvin Johnson
• Julio Jones
• Terrell Owens
• Marvin Harrison
• Justin Jefferson

Practice Squad

• Antonio Brown
• Andre Johnson

So, who would you remove?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2...quarter-century-team-snubbed-larry-fitzgerald

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals ranked top 10 in running back units in NFL

Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

The Arizona Cardinals have one of the best running back rooms in the NFL

With the offseason really in the off part of season, we have the listacles, the rankings and more coming out.

These are critical, in the sense they’re not important at all, but does give us discourse and a reason to remain mad and engaged.

So, today when PFF dropped their running back unit rankings I thought it was a fair one, but was also curious to see who was ahead of the Arizona Cardinals.

“9. Arizona Cardinals

James Conner’s brilliance over the past two seasons simply cannot be overstated. During that time, he ranks second in the NFL with a 92.2 PFF rushing grade and 128 missed tackles forced. The next closest running back on the team in carries last season was Trey Benson with 63, though he “averaged a solid 4.6 yards per attempt.”

“Emari Demercado has also flashed decent production in his first two seasons, but Conner will continue to dominate this backfield until someone else steps up.”

I feel like this is more than fair, the Cardinals have an alpha, they have a good enough running back three in Demercado, the question is whether Trey Benson is going to be able to take over for Conner, maybe not immediately, but to show the potential consistently.

The interesting thing to me is who is in front of them.

Check out the article and let me know what you think.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2...ng-back-units-in-nfl-james-conner-trey-benson

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Did Lamar Jackson, Kyler Murray and Russell Wilson deserve more guaranteed money on their contracts?

Photo by Michael Wade/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

An arbiter has issued a 61-page ruling on NFLPA’s QB contract collusion grievance

The NFLPA’s collusion grievance as applied to the structure of NFL QBs, much in terms of guaranteed money, has resulted in a 61-page ruling from an arbiter.

The three QBs whom the grievance focused on primarily were:

• Lamar Jackson
• Kyler Murray
• Russell Wilson

Here are the contracts (years, total salary, guaranteed money) in question:

• Jackson (BAL) —-> 5-years—-$260M—-$185Mg
• Murray (ARI) —-> 5-years—-$230M—-$160Mg
• Wilson (DEN) —-> 5-years—-$245M—-$165Mg

The similarity of the contracts would appear to follow a common structure.

After Deshaun Watson’s 5-year contract in 2022 worth $230M with all $230M guaranteed, who could blame the NFL owners for pushing back on fully guaranteed contracts of this size and magnitude?

Now that the 61-page ruling has been sent to the NFLPA and NFL, pundits like NBC’s Mike Florio are wondering why the ruling hasn’t been made public. Link:

NFL, NFLPA continue to hide ruling from collusion grievance - NBC Sports

What apparently has been interpreted from the ruling is that, according to Florio:

“It was a mixed result. The NFLPA won, to the extent that evidence of collusion was found. The NFL won, to the extent that no money was awarded to any of the players.”

ROTB Poll:

How did you vote. Why? And why do you think neither side appears to be eager to have the arbiter’s 61-page ruling released to the public?

ROTB Poll:

How did you vote?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2...heir-61-page-ruling-on-qb-contracts-collusion

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

PFF talks about one position the Arizona Cardinals need to look at in the 2026 NFL Draft

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

What position do the Arizona Cardinals need to look at in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Happy Friday one and all.

We have made it.

The Arizona Cardinals and the rest of the NFL rest easy gearing up for training camp and the 2025 NFL season.

But, it is the NFL offseason, so why not look ahead to the 2026 NFL Draft, where PFF dropped one position every NFL team needs to think about for the 2026 NFL Draft, and my buddy Trevor Sikkema has a thought on the Arizona Cardinals.

From PFF:

ARIZONA CARDINALS: INTERIOR OFFENSIVE LINE

The Cardinals did not address their interior offensive line with any premium assets this offseason, despite the unit finishing 2024 with sub-70.0 PFF pass-blocking and run-blocking grades.

Isaiah Adams and Evan Brown must play better at the guard spots in 2025, or Arizona will look for upgrades in the 2026 NFL Draft.

The guard position has not been a priority early, but they have thrown plenty of resources at the positions and they are quietly confident in what they have seen from Adams.

However, the offseason doesn’t matter as we all know. So, can Adams own that spot? And will that make just one guard spot the need heading into 2026?

What do you think?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2...in-the-2026-nfl-draft-evan-brown-isaiah-adams

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals fans see Josh Sweat leading team in sacks in 2025

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

This one was not close, as dans see Josh Sweat leading the team in sacks in 2025.

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

---

The Arizona Cardinals made a concerted effort to improve their pass rush this offseason, and it shows on paper.

Now, how does it play out in the season matters, but no one can say they haven’t addressed it.

That’s why we were curious how the fans would see it playing out.

Who leads the Arizona Cardinals in sacks in 2025?

It was overwhelming in one direction, and it was chalk, but it also makes sense.

61% of fans think that newly signed Josh Sweat will lead the team in sacks, with Baron Browning the next closest at only 15%.

Sweat’s career high in sacks came under Jonathan Gannon, so we can see if he can match that 11 sack season or even beat it.

But fans see Sweat leading the team this year in sacks.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2...-sacks-in-2025-darius-robinson-baron-browning

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Cardinals Reacts Survey: Who leads the Arizona Cardinals in sacks in 2025?

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Who do you think leads the Arizona Cardinals in sacks in 2025?

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

---

The Arizona Cardinals had a bad defensive front, especially rushing the passer in 2024.

So, they made growing that the last two offseasons a priority, whether it was Darius Robinson in the draft, in season with the acquisition of Baron Browning, and then obviously this offseason with Josh Sweat, Walter Nolen, bringing back Calais Campbell and hell even adding Dalvin Tomlinson.

That begs the question, who will lead the Arizona Cardinals in sacks in 2025?

I know the immediate inclination is to pick Josh Sweat, and to be fair that would make sense.

However, what happens if Sweat actually gets pressure off of guys like Zaven Collins, Baron Browning and Darius Robinson?

Could Sweat being the guy free up some other guys?

Could the Cardinals have a guy who is an interior menace? Could it be Robinson, could Walter Nolen be a rookie revelation?

This is a fun group, wonder who is the statistical leader by the end of the season.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2...-2025-josh-sweat-darius-robinson-walter-nolen

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Cardinals’ safety pins on defense

Photo by Bruce Yeung/Getty Images

Where the Cardinals safeties make the defense connect

Budda Ballin’:

If one were to ask Chandler Jones what one of his Cardinals’ teammates allowed him to play free and fast on the edge, he would immediately point to safety Budda Baker.

What?

Why would a safety be the most important teammate to an NFL sack artist?

Ideally, edge rushers are supposed to generate pressure on the opposing QB while also trying not to lose contain.

But big-time pass rushers need to be able to mix up their pass rushing paths to the QB. When an offensive tackle overcommits to an outside rush, the edge rusher needs to counter by employing an inside swim move.

However, any time an edge player attacks from the inside, he is immediately abandoning his contain responsibilities.

One of the more under-stated aspects of Budda Baker’s outstanding abilities is his penchant for taking over the responsibility of contain when the edge rusher to his side takes an inside move.

This has worked very well for the Cardinals versus both the run and the pass.

Case in point: watch how quicky Budda reacts and stuffs the play when the Cardinals’ edges get down-blocked:

Cardinals in a 'Mint' (Tite) alignment with a weak 'roll' to Cover 3 from their 3-High coverage shell vs. the Lions.

Watch Budda Baker as a heat-seeking missile...

This is truly one of the more unique defenses you will see in the NFL.
-- pic.twitter.com/etIO5d7a9e

— Cody Alexander (@The_Coach_A) May 8, 2025​

Newly acquired UFA Josh Sweat is about the closest physical match to Chandler Jones that Cardinals have had since Jones departed via free agency.

Because of Budda Baker, Josh Sweat, as he has said himself since he arrived in Arizona, is going to be able to play fast and free.

Josh Sweat confirms that the scheme in Arizona is "pretty much the same" as he's used to.

"You can play fast in it." pic.twitter.com/Uya31ia5t8

— PHNX Cardinals (@PHNX_Cardinals) June 11, 2025​

Josh Sweat is going to able to do this knowing that Budda has his back:

Josh Sweat beats the jump set inside with a counter cross chop/club. Powers through with the rip & gets the sack. High level stuff! #passrush #flyeaglesfly pic.twitter.com/3Gp1Dxk9no

— DLineVids (@dlinevids1) October 18, 2023​

Rabbit Feet:

The Cardinals’ effectiveness at the free safety position in pass coverage will be the key as to how fast and free the Cardinals’ cornerbacks can play.

When one looks at Will Johnson’s ability to jump routes, the thing that enables him to play to his instincts is the comfort of know the deep safety to his side, has his back if and when he jumps a route where the pass goes over his head.

Dadrion Taylor-Demerson at the free safety position also relies on quick instincts and is an ideal 3rd level compliment to Will Johnson and the team’s other ball hawking cornerbacks.

Listen to Jonathan Gannon’s assessment of what the “Rabbit” brings to the Cardinals’ skills at safety:

It sure sounds like Dadrion Taylor-Demerson checks a lot of boxes for HC Jonathan Gannon.

Year two breakout incoming @PHNX_Cardinals pic.twitter.com/UIqv1ZTx37

— Johnny Venerable (@JohnnyVenerable) June 11, 2025​

Look at Rabbit’s ability to cover the deep third on a play where the QB breaks contain:

Dadrion Taylor-Demerson with the BEAUTIFUL interception! pic.twitter.com/k82Exk2BTH

— PHNX Cardinals (@PHNX_Cardinals) August 18, 2024​

Look at this college highlight in covering for a busted coverage:

Players often ask about what #NFL scouts are looking for and I usually just say something like, “fly around and make them notice you.”

That’s exactly what @TexasTechFB FS Dadrion Taylor-Demerson has done this year.

Here’s rep that got @seniorbowl attention.

Crazy closing… https://t.co/lrSzRiSf0Z pic.twitter.com/Hm07bfLX2a

— Jim Nagy (@JimNagy_Sooners) September 20, 2023​

With Rabbit behind him, Will Johnson should be able to play as aggressively as this:

#Michigan CB Will Johnson

6-foot-2, 194

Aggressive eyes/explosive, forward ability. Has the physical tools to align in press. Better suited to play off — with vision — given he’s more smooth than sudden. Ball skills/playmaking mentality (9 career INTs, 3 defensive TDs). pic.twitter.com/F7dns2V9Bv

— Matt Bowen (@MattBowen41) March 24, 2025​

Did you notice how the safety behind Will Johnson at first moves to cover the deep option?

Here, have a good look at each of these great plays generated by Will Johnson and imagine what having a player of Dadrion Taylor-Demerson’s quickness and range behind him should mean to the All-American wolverine.

With dynamic playmaking skills and elite physical traits, no wonder Will Johnson is one of this year's highly-touted prospects ️

: 2025 #NFLDraft – April 24-26 on NFLN/ESPN/ABC
: Stream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/UuSDfsPijc

— NFL (@NFL) April 4, 2025​

Flying like a Cardinal with the wind at his back:

Will Johnson bringing the hype for 2025 https://t.co/tJyxXi52MM

— The AZ sports fan! (@TheAZsportsfan1) June 20, 2025​

Under the watchful eyes of the Cardinals’ safeties.

Call them “safety pins” for the way they connect the whole defense.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2025/6/23/24454093/cardinals-safety-pins-on-defense

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals see boost in NFL defensive line rankings after offseason

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

An offseason of moves helps the Cardinals climb the PFF defensive line rankings.

Happy Wednesday one and all.

On paper there may not be a more improved unit in the NFL than the Arizona Cardinals defensive line.

So, when PFF dropped their 2025 preseason defensive line rankings, it was nice to see the Cardinals moving up.

Not even cracking into the teens yet, but much better.

From PFF:

20. Arizona Cardinals

The Cardinals’ defensive line might be the most improved unit over the past eight months — including the mid-season acquisition of edge defender Baron Browning. Arizona added edge defender Josh Sweat and interior defenders Dalvin Tomlinson and Calais Campbell in free agency and selected interior defender Walter Nolen with their first-round pick.

The Cardinals ranked only 26th in the NFL in pressure rate without blitzing last season (28.0%), but that should improve in 2025 with the new pieces along the defensive line.

I am fine with this.

When last season ended, the Cardinals were ranked 28th in their week-to-week defensive line rankings, so to start the season eight spots higher is better.

Now, how high can they climb?

Where do you think they end 2025?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2...ason-josh-sweat-dalvin-tomlinson-walter-nolen

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals still near the bottom of NFL linebacker unit rankings according to PFF

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Cardinals need to improve on the field to get the grade up.

Happy Thursday one and all.

Yesterday we looked at the PFF rankings of the defensive line units in the NFL and how much on paper, the Arizona Cardinals have improved.

Today they looked at the linebacker units, and while the Cardinals have invested, it wasn’t heavy like with the defensive line in terms of money or high level picks.

So, that could explain why they are still so low in the overall rankings.

From PFF:

29. Arizona Cardinals

The Cardinals have invested a plethora of resources in their defense this offseason, and the linebacker position is no exception. Former Bengal Akeem Davis-Gaither arrives after posting a 59.0 PFF overall grade in Cincinnati last season. He’s projected to start alongside Mack Wilson Sr., who earned a 63.8 PFF overall grade in 2024.

Veterans Owen Pappoe and Mykal Walker project as depth, along with fourth-round rookie Cody Simon, but this unit may struggle to hold things together behind what should be an improved defensive line.

Here is the thing, and this is something I have liked about the new regime, as opposed to the last regime.

They understand that most of the top linebacker units are not filled with first round picks, but instead with athletic players who can make plays when kept clean.

While the Lions drafted a first round linebacker and are the second ranked unit, the next groups include:

1. Philadelphia Eagles - Veteran failed third round pick from Saints, third round pick (although they did draft a first round linebacker for the first time in about two decades)
2. Lions
3. New England Patriots - They have the third ranked unit despite not having drafted any of their starters and only one was drafted in the top 50 by their original team.
4. Kansas City Chiefs - Nick Bolton is the only one drafted in the top 100.
5. Washington Commanders - They are hoping the veteran duo can remain healthy, but again, neither drafted by the team, and Bobby Wagner was drafted during the end of the first, beginning of the second Obama administration.

So, again, it has little to do with investing early in the draft, and much, much more to do with how the group works together.

Will that be the case with the Cardinals linebackers? Can they find the right mix to get into the top half of the league?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2...acker-unit-rankings-mack-wilson-jr-cody-simon

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals have a blossoming star in Paris Johnson Jr.

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Arizona Cardinals left tackle has all the makings of being a superstar.

Happy Friday one and all.

The Arizona Cardinals have spent the last couple of seasons trying to replenish the talent along the offensive line, and in doing so GM Monti Ossenfort made Paris Johnson Jr. his first pick of his regime.

Well, he so far has hit a home run with that pick, as PFF ranked the best offensive tackles in the NFL and Johnson Jr. in only two seasons is ranked top 15.

From PFF:

14. Paris Johnson Jr., Arizona Cardinals

After playing only right tackle in his rookie season, Johnson moved to left tackle for 2024 and was able to bring his play to a new level until an injury ended his year. The Ohio State product improved upon a 60.1 PFF overall grade in 2023 with an 80.8 mark in 2024, which ranked 12th at the position.

After giving up pressure on 6.4% of pass plays in 2023, Johnson decreased that figure to 4.9% last season.

PJJ being top 15 in only the first two seasons of his career, and playing two different positions, is massive. He has top ten, and maybe even top five potential if he can continue to grow and stay healthy.

Even if he has reached his ceiling, are we really going to complain about one of the best tackles in the NFL?

Of the players in front of him, four were right tackles. So PJJ is one of the top 10 left tackles in the NFL already, and he has a real shot in year two at left tackle to make a leap.

That should excite everyone.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2...in-paris-johnson-jr-offensive-tackle-rankings

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Budda Baker: the “red dot” Cardinal

Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images

Will Budda’s teammates consistently have Budda’s back?

Yesterday, ESPN’s Mina Kimes conducted a fascinating session with the Arizona Cardinals’ “red dot” defender, Budda Baker. To see and hear what “red dot” means, check this out:

Got a chance to talk with the great @BuddaBaker3 about his fascinating role in the (kinda bonkers) Cardinals defense last year.

One of my favorite players to watch in the entire league. Football nerds + Cardinals fans will like this interview: https://t.co/u7WPLr4FaB pic.twitter.com/C3q3jMro7S

— Mina Kimes (@minakimes) June 26, 2025​

Here’s the entire video:

Commentary:

Being the Cardinals’ red dot (most targeted) defender is nothing new for Budda Baker. Back in 2021, when Budda was voted the 19th best player in the NFL by his peers, the common themes among his offensive opponents were:

• he’s probably the best defender we will play all year (Damien Harris)
• he’s the fastest, hardest hitting player on the field (George Kittle)
• every play you have to know where Budda is (Kyle Juszczyk)

Click here for short NFL #19 tribute to Budda Baker:

(18) #19 Budda Baker (S, Cardinals) | Top 100 Players in 2021 - YouTube

What was different for Budda Baker in 2024?

Nick Rallis, in his 2nd season as the Cardinals’ DC, after using Budda in a more traditional type of safety role in 2023, decided to, at Budda’s behest, incorporate the multiple, creative ways that Budda could be used in the defense, much in the manner that Vance Joseph used him.

Some of you may recall that Budda was hoping for Vance Joseph to be named as Kliff Kingsbury’s successor. Understandably for him because Budda was thriving in the creative roles that Vance was giving him.

Budda also surmised that if Vance were to become the next head coach, then he would receive the 3-year contract extension that Steve Keim had promised him. But for Budda, Kliff and Vance were now gone and so was Steve Keim.

That left Budda at the mercy of a new GM and head coach —- and when Budda asked for his contract extension in good faith, given what was promised to him by the old regime, Monti Ossenfort was not willing to go that far, but was willing to restructure Budda’s contract in 2023 in order to give him some added guaranteed money assurances.

It was a one-year compromise that eventually paid off for Monti and Budda after the new coaches saw first-hand how and why Budda is the heart and soul of the Cardinals’ defense and an alpha leader for the team. By virtue of Budda’s ability to prove his value to the team, one week before Christmas 2024, he was awarded a 3-year, $54M contract with $29M guaranteed.

Budda loves Nick Rallis’ offense, in part, because he is back to being the Cardinals’ “red dot” laser force from all angles of the game board.

Nick Rallis: “The Mad Scientist”

When Mina Kimes raved about Nick Rallis’ “crazy” ability to dial up creative looks and blitz packages, Budda Baker agreed that Rallis can be considered “the mad scientist.”

Elaborate, surprise-tactic schemes are good when the timing is exactly right, but a successful defense is always dependent on the players’ ability to diagnose plays quickly, shed blocks, tackle forcefully and cover fast and sticky.

Budda epitomizes all of these cornerstone abilities that are the bedrock of great defenses, Yet, alas, over the past few years, far too many of his teammates have not. While Budda so often has his teammates’ backs, he’s often had to deal with the pressure of knowing that if he doesn’t make the play on the ball, then who will?

Exotic schemes can be effective perhaps a handful of times a game. However, the bottom line is that defenses need to show they can win straight out of their primary alignments, particularly when showing man or zone coverage.

What’s encouraging for Nick Rallis, Budda Baker and the Cardinals’ defense this year is the significant talent and depth that has been added to the front seven. For the first time, since 2021, the Cardinals defense is likely going to be able to generate strong pressure on opposing QBs with a 4-man rush.

What this development calls for is a more disciplined continuity in pass coverages where technique and communication are of paramount importance.

One therefore has to hope that Nick Rallis can become a little less of a mad scientist this season, in favor of become more of a fine-tune mechanic.

Budda conceded to Mina Kimes that he likely will not be blitzing as much this season but will have a greater focus on trying to get his hands more frequently on the football.

Which, of course, harkens back to his #19 in the NFL video where he revealed that the favorite play of his career was his first interception where he perfectly jumped a slant route versus the Cowboys.

What Budda and his pass coverage teammates are priming for is a little more of this:

Such is often the case for defensive playmakers when they sense the ball is going to come out fast and hot —- and in Budda’s case, heading in the vicinity of the Cardinals’ red dot.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2025/6/27/24456566/budda-baker-the-red-dot-cardinal

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

2025 NFC West: Offensive Line Comparisons

Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images

How does the Cardinals’ offensive line stack up against their division rivals?

As is a yearly tradition here at ROTB, we compare the Cardinals’ projected starters on the offensive line to those of the Rams. 49ers and Seahawks. Typically, heading into training camp the Cardinals’ offensive line has gotten little love from NFL pundits.

This year —- there has been a change in point of view, according to 10-year NFL scout, Scott Barrett!

Ranking All 32 Offensive Lines in the NFL

Ranking All 32 Offensive Lines in the NFL
+ According to 10-year NFL Scout @sdiben90NFL

1. Eagles
2. Broncos
3. Buccaneers
4. Ravens
5. Lions
6. Bills
7. Colts
8. Cardinals
9. Rams
10. Chargers
11. Commanders
12. Falcons
13. Packers
14. Vikings
15. Bears
16. 49ers
17. Browns
18.…

— Scott Barrett (@ScottBarrettDFB) June 24, 2025​

2025 NFC West Projected Offensive Line Starters:​

LT:

1. SFO —- Trent Williams —- 85.6* (10 games started in 2024)
2. SEA —- Charles Cross —- 82.5
3. ARI —- Paris Johnson Jr. —- 80.8
4. LAR —- D.J. Humphries —- 44.8* (UFA 2025, Joe Noteboom left in FA, Alaric Jackson on IR)

LG:

1. LAR —- Steve Avila —- 66.1
2. ARI —- Evan Brown —- 65.9
3. SFO —- Ben Bartch —- (74.8 in 3 games for SFO in 2024)
4. SEA —- Grey Zabel —- R

C:

1. ARI —- Hjalte Froholdt —- 76.1
2. LAR —- Coleman Shelton —- 66.4* (UFA 2025 CHI)
3. SFO —- Jake Brendal —- 65.0
4. SEA —- Olu Oluwatami —- 64.2

RG:

1. SFO —- Dominick Puni —- 80.5
2. LAR —- Kevin Dotson —- 78.2
3. ARI —- Isaiah Adams —- 58.4
4. SEA —- Christian Haynes —- 48.5

RT:

1. LAR —- Rob Havenstein —- 75.8
2. SFO —- Colton McKivitz —- 72.2
3. ARI —- Jonah Williams —- 70.7* (6 games in 2024)
4. SEA —- Abraham Lucas —- 61.9 (7 games in 2024)

2024 Run Blocking NFC West Rankings:

1. SFO—- #3
2. LAR —- #6
3. ARI —- #14
4. SEA —- #24

2024 Pass Blocking NFC West Rankings:

1. ARI —- #4
2. SFO —- #11
3. SEA —- #26
4. LAR —- #30

2024 Offense NFC West Rankings:

1. SFO —- #5
2. ARI —- #7
3. LAR —- #9
4. SEA —- #16

2024 Passing Offense NFC West Rankings:

1. SEA —- #7
2. ARI —- #8
3. LAR —- #19
4. SFO —- #20

2024 Rushing Offense NFC West Rankings:

1. SEA —- #6
2. ARI —- #9
3. SFO —- #13
4. LAR —- #22

2024 Offensive DVOA NFC West Rankings:

1. LAR —- #9
2. ARI —- #12
3. SFO —- #14
4. SEA —- #18

2025 Continuity —- combined 2024 starts for returning starters:

1. ARI —- 65
2. SFO —- 54
3. SEA —- 41
4. LAR —- 40

Total Points:

1. ARI —- 35
2. SFO —- 34
3. LAR —- 28
4. SEA —- 22

Scott DiBenedetto’s 2025 NFL Offensive Line Rankings​

2025 NFL Offensive Line Rankings | Fantasy Points

What makes a good offensive line? ​

Scott’s criteria with my 2025 grades for Cardinals:​

• Continuity — I can’t stress enough how important continuity is for an offensive line. Yes, teams have seen quick improvements after bringing in a new player, but the more a unit plays together, the better the communication and overall quality of play.

(Mitch’s OL continuity grade for 2025 Cardinals: A-. The Cardinals are returning all 5 starters last season, save for G Will Hernandez. Yet Isaiah Adams was able to take 462 snaps as a rookie 10-game starter last season).

• Depth — OL injuries can derail any team (Trent Williams last year), but having quality replacements can keep a team competitive. With the Browns in 2020, I learned that you can never have too many linemen, but they have to be capable.

(Mitch’s depth grade for 2025 Cardinals: A-. To being with, re-signing T Kelvin Beachum was outstanding. Monti then added solid depth players in UFA G Royce Newman and UFA G/T Jake Curhan, to add to returners T Christian Jones R5-24, G/C Jon Gaines II R4-23, C Sincere Haynesworth, G Nick Leverett SFA24 and McClendon Curtis SF2A5. plus what excites me perhaps the most is the Cardinals’ drafting of Texas mauler G Hayden Conner R6-25 and a trio of talented undrafted tackles in Ohio St. starting RT Josh Fryer, UConn starting LT Valentin Senn and Florida St. starting RT Jeremiah Byers).

• Quality additions — There’s typically turnover every year with OL groups. Adding the right veteran or draft pick could be the missing piece to becoming an elite unit.

(Mitch’s OL quality additions grade for 2025 Cardinals: A-. Same reasons as above).

• Veteran/Youth split — Playing offensive line as a rookie or second-year player is incredibly difficult, so having helpful vets can speed up a young player’s development.

(Mitch’s Veteran/Youth split grade for 2025 Cardinals: A-. A Day 1 LT and Day 2 RG, with solid veterans at LG and RT, plus an emerging NFC Pro Bowler veteran at C).

• Coaching — OL is such a technique-heavy position. Having the right person in charge of the meeting room is crucial. I had first-hand experience with this in Cleveland. We hired Bill Callahan in 2020 after years of questionable coaching, and a good unit became one of the league’s best.

Mitch’s Coaching grade for 2025 Cardinals: TBD. The Cardinals lost arguable the best coach on their staff when Klayton Adams signed on to be the Cowboys’ new OC/OLC where new HC Brian Schottenheimer will be calling the plays. In Adams’ place comes national Champion Ohio St. AHC/OLC Justin Fry, who has coached elaborate, Pro-style offenses under Ryan Day (OSU) and Chip Kelly (UCLA, OSU).

• Scheme fit — GMs and Head Coaches have to realize which players fit the schemes they’re trying to run. If body types and playstyles don’t mesh, then the OL will struggle.

(Mitch’s Scheme fit grade for 2025 Cardinals; A-. It’s difficult to draft offensive linemen for a run-heavy, smashmouth type of offense and still be able to do a good job of pass blocking for the QB. All in all, Monti Ossenfort should be commended for the job he is doing in this regard).

Scott DiBenedetto’s 2025 NFL Offensive Line Rankings​

8. Arizona Cardinals – 2024 Preseason Ranking - 30​

Projected Starting Lineups​

LT Paris Johnson / Kelvin Beachum

LG Evan Brown

C Hjalte Froholdt

RG Isaiah Adams / Royce Newman $

RT Jonah Williams

The Cardinals’ offensive line overperformed in 2024. I had them down at No. 30 heading into last season, and they ended up in my “Good” tier at each check-in. Arizona faded down the stretch, but this offensive line was arguably the most consistent unit on the team.

Paris Johnson was exceptional at LT, as was Jonah Williams when he was healthy. Evan Brown and Hjalte Froholdt were solid all season and proved that they can be effective NFL starters. The big change and weak link is at RG. Isaiah Adams and the newly acquired Royce Newman will battle for the starting job, but both guys have issues.

As I said last year, this team will go as Kyler Murray goes, but he won’t have the excuse of a weak offensive line to hide behind as the 2025 season kicks off. Yes, there will be one new piece, but this unit’s quality continuity at the other four spots will make them effective once again.

9. Los Angeles Rams – 2024 Preseason Ranking - 9​

Projected Starting Lineup​

LT Alaric Jackson

LG Steve Avila

C Coleman Shelton $ / Beaux Limmer

RG Kevin Dotson

RT Rob Havenstein

The Rams’ offensive line went through the ringer last season. I buried them after injury woes and a rough start, but the unit rebounded to be one of the more productive units, no matter who was playing.

Alaric Jackson played really well in both phases after being suspended for the first two games. Rob Havenstein had another strong year, but was in and out of the lineup with injuries. When healthy and not suspended, these two are an effective pair of edge protectors.

The interior is where any questions could be. Steve Avila and Kevin Dotson return at both guard spots, and Coleman Shelton returns after a sabbatical in Chicago to be the new center. Avila played in 10 games and had a down year run blocking, but was still good overall. Dotson was consistently above average despite a foot injury. Shelton was slightly above average in his one year with the Bears, and his familiarity with the offense should mitigate any issues he may encounter upon returning to the OL room. I’m high on the Rams heading into the season again.

16. San Francisco 49ers – 2024 Preseason Ranking - 2​

Projected Starting Lineup​

LT Trent Williams

LG Ben Bartch

C Jake Brendel / Matt Hennessy $

RG Dominick Puni

RT Colton McKivitz

I went out on a limb ranking the 49ers’ offensive line No. 2 heading into last season. That limb snapped off early, and I fell flat on my face. 2024 was the season from hell for San Francisco, so it’s not surprising that the offensive line struggled, but I didn’t expect as much of a drop-off.

Let’s start with the returning starters. Trent Williams is still a force and the anchor of this unit. He returns after an ankle injury ended his season early. Colton McKivitz is underrated since he plays opposite Williams, but he’s a quality edge protector on the right side. Jake Brendel was much better as a run blocker last season and can stabilize the interior, which went through some changes.

Ben Bartch takes over at LG after being inactive for most of 2024. He saw extended action in only one game, so it’s hard to expect a lot from him in 2025. However, the 49ers should expect a lot from second-year RG Dominick Puni. He had an impressive rookie season run blocking and was better than expected overall. I can’t in good conscience put San Francisco that high in this year’s rankings, but don’t be surprised if this unit sneaks up on you.

30. Seattle Seahawks – 2024 Preseason Ranking - 28​

Projected Starting Lineup​

LT Charles Cross

LG Grey Zabel * / Anthony Bradford

C Olu Oluwatimi

RG Christian Haynes

RT Abraham Lucas

Charles Cross was exceptional last season, but he was cancelled out by how much of a mess the rest of the unit was. Abraham Lucas and Olu Oluatimi were serviceable when on the field, but this group is very unproven heading into 2025.

The big addition is this year’s 18th overall pick, Grey Zabel. Cross and Zabel should keep Sam Darnold’s blindside well protected, but this unit can’t have the same roller coaster season that they did last year.

Seattle’s OL was all over the map for me in 2024, but they were clearly towards the bottom by the end of the season. The offense has undergone a significant overhaul, with the offensive coordinator, quarterback, and top receiver all departing. John Benton takes over as OL coach, which is another factor that could delay this unit’s development.

With a new era beginning in Seattle, will the offensive line be the unit that keeps this team out of the playoffs again?

Summary:

Finally, some respect for the Cardinals' offensive line. Per PFF's team offense rankings in 2024, Cardinals offensive line was #4 in the NFL in pass blocking and #14 in run blocking (yet Cardinals were #2 in yards per carry). https://t.co/xSvTAky5ee

— Walter B J Mitchell (@WBJMItch) June 24, 2025​

They had a very, very good year last season. Hopefully they can build on it and continue to improve!

— Joanna Cards Fan (@cardsfanjoanna) June 24, 2025​

Brava, Joanna!

ROTB Poll:

Your vote and reasons why?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2025/6/29/24458369/2025-nfc-west-offensive-line-comparisons

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Former Arizona Cardinals quarterback ranked among best of the Super Bowl era

Kim Klement-Imagn Images

The Arizona Cardinals got the end of Warner’s career and it helped get him into the top 20 of quarterbacks all-time.

Happy Monday one and all.

As we sit in the doldrums of summer the lists continue to come out, this time by our own SB Nation.

A panel has convened to rank the best quarterbacks of all-time and one former Arizona Cardinal is on the list.

From SB Nation:

19. Kurt Warner

Highest Ranking: 16
Lowest Ranking: 30

Why Kurt Warner is one of the greatest NFL QBs of all-time

“As much as there is a tendency to distill football down to statistics sometimes, there is still room for the story, and Kurt Warner has one of the best stories in NFL history, so much so that he is a member of more than one Hall of Fame thanks to his professional career. An undrafted free agent, Warner was released before he ever got a shot in the NFL. He stocked shelves at a grocery, played Arena football, and was then sent to NFL Europe before finally sticking on a roster in the NFL with the Rams. Even then, Warner needed an injury to starter Trent Green to get the opportunity to lead the Rams, and he led them to not only a Super Bowl, but to one of the most explosive offensive outputs in NFL history. Warner’s career was a consistent story of perseverance, which showed up again during his time with the Arizona Cardinals. Given up on as a starter, Warner won back the job and took the Cardinals to a Super Bowl, narrowly missing out on another ring in one of the best games in NFL history.” - Sam Monson

Warner’s place in history definitely took a hit because he had as six seasons where he was a good quarterback, and five seasons where he was basically a bench warmer level.

But his six seasons lead to two MVP’s and three Super Bowls with one win.

So, getting into the top 20 is a great accomplishment and talks to how high the highs were with Warner.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2...-among-best-of-the-super-bowl-era-kurt-warner

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

2025 NFC West: Defensive Line Comparisons

Photo by Bruce Yeung/Getty Images

How do the Cardinals stack up on the defensive line this season?

Having taken an in-depth look at the Arizona Cardinals’ offensive line talent and how they compare in 2025 to the other offensive lines in the NFC West, today we take a close look at how the Cardinals’ 2025 defensive line compares (on paper) to the Rams’, 49ers’ and Seahawks”.

We are going to treat this as the top 5 defensive linemen on each squad, and rank them, for discussion points, based on their 2024 PFF grades.

ED:

1. SFO: Nick Bosa —- 91.0
2. SEA: Boye Mafe —- 75.2
3. ARI: Zaven Collins —- 72.0
4. LAR: Byron Young —- 6.1.6

DT:

1. SEA: Leonard Williams —- 87.1
2. LAR: Braden Fiske —- 57.6
3. SFO: Yetur Gross-Matos —- 51.5
4. ARI: Walter Nolen III —- R

NT:

1. LAR: Poona Ford —- 85.3
2. ARI: Dalvin Tomlinson —- 67.4 —- UFA CLE
3. SEA: Byron Murphy II —- 57.8
4. SFO: Alfred Collins —- R

DT:

1. ARI: Calais Campbell —- 82.3 —- UFA MIA
2. LAR: Kobie Turner —- 75.1
3. SEA: Jarran Reed —- 70.6
4. SFO: Jordan Elliott —- 47.6

ED:

1. LAR: Jared Verse —- 89.3
2. ARI: Josh Sweat —- 70.0 —- UFA PHI
3. SFO: Bryce Huff —- 69.8 —- Trade PHI
4. SEA: DeMarcus Lawrence —- 56.8 —- UFA DAL

PFF’s 2025 Defensive Line rankings:

2025 NFL defensive line rankings: T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward propel Steelers to No. 1 (pff.com)

9. Los Angeles Rams​

Many expected the Rams’ defensive line to fall off following Aaron Donald‘s retirement, but the unit has remained above average thanks to its young players, including a pair of impactful rookies. First-year interior defender Braden Fiske generated pressure on 13.2% of pass plays in 2024, which ranked fifth at the position, while fellow rookie Jared Verse’s 89.3 PFF overall grade placed seventh among edge defenders.

Los Angeles added interior defender Poona Ford in the offseason, and he brings an 85.3 PFF overall grade that ranked fifth among interior defenders this past season.

20. Arizona Cardinals​

The Cardinals’ defensive line might be the most improved unit over the past eight months — including the mid-season acquisition of edge defender Baron Browning. Arizona added edge defender Josh Sweat and interior defenders Dalvin Tomlinson and Calais Campbell in free agency and selected interior defender Walter Nolen with their first-round pick.

The Cardinals ranked only 26th in the NFL in pressure rate without blitzing last season (28.0%), but that should improve in 2025 with the new pieces along the defensive line.

21. San Francisco 49ers​

Once considered to be the best defensive line in football, the 49ers’ unit now relies mainly on star edge rusher Nick Bosa. The Ohio State product earned a 91.0 PFF overall grade in 2024, which ranked fourth among edge defenders. The rest of the group leaves a lot to be desired. The 49ers must hope that Bryce Huff can find his old form as he reunites with Robert Saleh. Huff was among the best situational pass rushers in the league during his time with the Jets.

23. Seattle Seahawks​

Despite missing some time with injury in 2024, veteran interior defender Leonard Williams earned the highest PFF overall grade of his career in his 10th NFL season. The USC product’s 87.1 mark ranked fourth among 118 interior defenders.

While there is some potential along the defensive line around Williams, if the Seahawks are to be considered an average unit in 2025, they need 32-year-old Jarran Reed to continue to play at a high level and fourth-year edge defender Boye Mafe to take the next step and become an above-average pass rusher.

Total Points:

1. LAR —- 19
2. ARI —- 16
3. SEA —- 15
4. SFO —- 12

Interesting: combined averages of the NFC West teams’ OL (@sdiben90NFL) and DL (@PFF) rankings:

1. LAR: 9 (OL-9, DL-9)
2. ARI: 14 (OL-8, DL-20)
3. SFO: 18.5 (OL-16, DL-21)
4. SEA: 26.6 (OL-30, DL-23)

The Cardinals appear to be trending in the right direction in bolstering the talent up front on both sides of the ball. The most curious and rare factor is that both the 2025 Cardinals’ offensive and defensive lines are in the hands of rookie NFL coaches and coordinators who are heading into their third year of creating the game plans and calling the plays.

ROTB Poll:

Your vote and why?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2025/7/1/24459600/2025-nfc-west-defensive-line-comparisons

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Cardinals Reacts Survey: Who wins the right guard competition for the Arizona Cardinals?

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Talking the Arizona Cardinals right guard position.

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

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Happy Tuesday one and all.

Hope you are having a great short week heading into the Fourth of July holiday. While the Arizona Cardinals have three weeks until camp starts, our football program leaves for camp next Monday, so in between things I will try and get as much out there as possible.

However, before the Holiday, wanted to see what everyone is thinking about the right guard position for the Arizona Cardinals.

Who do you think enters week one as the starter, as long as everyone is healthy?

We know the team has quietly been impressed and pleased with Isaiah Adams from year one through this offseason, so it seems like he is the favorite, but is that who you think wins it?

What are your thoughts?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2...ona-cardinals-2025-training-camp-isaiah-adams