Week 2 run-game grading spotlighted the mix of dominant blocking and stout defense. Jordan Mailata anchored Philadelphia's ground game with a 90.8 run-blocking grade, continuing his ascent after 2024. Darnell Wright (HM, 90.7) drove Chicago's run-blocking, while Ed Ingram (83.6) and Ezra Cleveland (HM 77.4) showed top-grade blocking in their zones.

Defensively, Demario Davis led linebackers at 88.8, while Nolan Smith posted a 90.1 run-defense mark—the best among all players—with two run stops and a forced fumble. Matthew Butler (89.7) and Derrick Brown (84.0) added strong run-defense. These marks inform Week 3 fantasy pivots and DFS targets.

Arizona’s 2024 free-agent splash largely missed, with only Mack Wilson and Evan Brown delivering solid season-long value. Calais Campbell, Dalvin Tomlinson and Josh Sweat carried big-name expectations but battled injuries and underperformance. Bilal Nichols, Sean Murphy-Bunting and Zay Jones faced hurdles, while DeeJay Dallas exited after preseason. The Cardinals’ 2025 outlook hinges on health, depth and better returns from this year’s additions.

Two breakout contributors stand out: Wilson anchored the middle and Brown logged season-long consistency at left guard, earning new deals. The club now pivots toward stability and health, banking on a deeper roster and clearer roles as it rebuilds around a healthier core and smarter FA picks.

Kyzir White heads into free agency with a potential landing in Indianapolis after the Cardinals reshaped their linebacker corps. The Colts hosted White on a visit, aiming to add a veteran presence behind Franklin and Bachie as Arizona replaced him with Davis-Gaither and Simon to boost run defense and coverage. If signed, White could anchor Indy’s second level while the Cardinals lean on younger pieces in a retooled scheme.

With 53-man cuts looming, White’s landing would reinvigorate Colts IDP outlooks and shift Cardinals expectations on a defense that’s betting on depth and leadership to drive 2025. The chess match between veteran presence and youth will shape how both teams approach the rest of the offseason.