PHOENIX, AZ - The Arizona Cardinals enter Season 33 with coach Jonathan Gannon under pressure. After finishing 4-13 in Season 32, the franchise knew it needed to act decisively. With the offseason in full swing, the front office added multiple veterans to key positions-here's how the moves stack up in this defining campaign.
Winners
Defensive Line Overhaul
Arizona aggressively upgraded its front, agreeing to a four-year, $76.4 million deal with Josh Sweat, who recorded double-digit sacks under Gannon's Eagles defense. They also signed Dalvin Tomlinson (two years, $29 million) to anchor the interior, and brought back veteran Calais Campbell on a one-year deal. The additions reshape the trenches and give Gannon a foundation for pressure-based schemes.
Liability Turned Asset: Kyler Murray
Despite a tough season-finishing 32nd in the league in passing with 2,134 yards-Murray's early flashes showed what this offense could produce when protected. With added blocking help and weapons like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Trey McBride, his potential for a bounce-back is genuine.
Leadership and Continuity
Cornerback Zaven Collins and safety Budda Baker remained cornerstones, with linebacker Baron Browning also re-signing on a two-year deal after joining via trade. Veteran backup QB Jacoby Brissett reunited with Gannon and OC Drew Petzing, bringing valuable experience to the QB room.
Supplemental Reinforcements
Depth pieces like WR Simi Fehoko, OT Jake Curhan, DL L.J. Collier, and versatile O-line assets Royce Newman and Evan Brown help plug holes without breaking the bank. These under‑the‑radar signings provide insurance and flexibility to a limited roster.
Losers
Offense Still a Question Mark
The Cardinals ranked last in passing offense (188.8 ypg), 30th in scoring (18.9 ppg), and 29th in total yards (4,846). Even with additions, the offensive line and passing game need cohesion.
Sean Murphy‑Bunting's Injury & Secondary Impact
The projected starter on the back end, Sean Murphy-Bunting was placed on the NFI list in May, leaving a hole opposite Baker. Though young CBs were added, durability concerns could limit depth early.
Gannon's Hot Seat
Losing the division in Season 31 (8-9) and collapsing to 4-13 in Season 32 has put Gannon under pressure. Multiple outlets list him among the most vulnerable coaches heading into Season 33. This "prove‑it" year may decide his fate.
What's Next
While the O-line and secondary need cohesion, the revamped defense-with elite veterans across the trenches and backfield-is the true barometer for progress. Game film from early-season matchups against the NFC West and key contests in Weeks 4 through 7 will reveal if this team can holistically improve.
For coach Gannon, Murray, and that revamped defense, this is more than a roster reboot-it's a springboard. Win now, or risk watching rebuilds start in Year Five.
