The Arizona Cardinals have shown remarkable defensive progress from the 2023 to 2024 NFL season, achieving an impressive leap from 32nd to 14th in defensive DVOA. This turnaround is particularly notable given their tough schedule and significant injuries, losing key players like BJ Ojulari and Dennis Gardeck. Their commitment to improvement continues into 2025 with strategic additions in free agency and the draft aimed at fortifying their defensive line and linebacker corps.

BetMGM's Nick Hennion highlighted that despite their challenges, the Cardinals managed to navigate the third-hardest schedule against opposing offenses last year, showcasing their resilience. This season, with strengthened personnel, they aim to further enhance their defensive capabilities as they work towards a competitive playoff run.

The Arizona Cardinals bolstered their roster with a successful 2025 NFL Draft, focusing on key areas of need. However, not every player on the team benefited from the new selections. Sean Murphy-Bunting, Bilal Nichols, and Kyler Murray emerged as the biggest losers post-draft. Murphy-Bunting's role as a starting cornerback is in jeopardy following the team's choice of Will Johnson. Nichols, who struggled with injuries and performance, faces stiff competition after the Cardinals drafted Walter Nolen, while Murray finds himself in a precarious situation as the offense remains unchanged, putting immense pressure on him to perform.

The Arizona Cardinals have secured their fourth consecutive victory, overpowering the New York Jets 31-6. With a 6-4 record, they lead the NFC West and are hitting their stride as they prepare for a crucial matchup against the Seattle Seahawks.

Despite a week 11 bye, the Cardinals must maintain their intensity and discipline, having committed only four defensive penalties in their last four games. Injuries have plagued the team, but the bye week offers a chance for key players to return, potentially enhancing their performance in upcoming games.

Tua Tagovailoa is set to return to the field after recovering from another concussion, with Miami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel emphasizing the need for him to protect himself better this time. Tagovailoa's previous injury came after he initiated contact during a scramble, prompting discussions among teammates about the importance of sliding to avoid hits.

The Dolphins face the Arizona Cardinals, who feature a mobile quarterback in Kyler Murray. Murray's ability to scramble adds pressure on defenses, while the Dolphins hope to utilize Tagovailoa's accuracy to enhance their offense. Meanwhile, the Cardinals' defense faces challenges with multiple injuries, including linebacker Dennis Gardeck's season-ending ACL tear.

Despite ups and downs in the Murray-to-Marvin Harrison Jr. connection, both players express optimism about their potential growth. On the defensive side, Jalen Ramsey's versatility has made him a key asset for Miami, contributing to their strong pass defense.

The Arizona Cardinals' defense faces a significant blow as linebacker Dennis Gardeck is out for the season due to a torn ACL, confirmed by coach Jonathan Gannon. This injury occurred during the Cardinals' narrow victory over the Los Angeles Chargers.

Gardeck, who has a history of ACL injuries, was a key player this season, leading the team in sacks. This marks the fourth major injury for a defensive player on the Cardinals, raising concerns as they look to bolster their defense with rookie Darius Robinson's anticipated return.