The Arizona Cardinals completed their second day of mandatory minicamp, showcasing some promising developments in their offseason program. While linebacker B.J. Ojulari was sidelined, rookie cornerback Will Johnson participated in practice despite not being in full action, aligning with the pre-camp strategy set by head coach Jonathan Gannon. Observers captured highlights and photos, which reflected the team's ongoing preparations for the upcoming season.

As the Cardinals approach their summer break before training camp, the coaching staff is likely assessing player performances and strategizing for the next phase. The absence of Ojulari, a significant player, raises questions about the depth at linebacker. Still, Johnson's presence hints at a focus on integrating new talent into the roster, aiming to solidify defensive capabilities as they head into the training camp season.

The Arizona Cardinals' organized team activities (OTAs) have started their second week, showcasing the players present and those who missed practice. Notably absent were outside linebacker BJ Ojulari, who is recovering from an ACL injury, and several newcomers including Josh Sweat, Bilal Nichols, Calais Campbell, and Dalvin Tomlinson. The absence of Justin Jones and Akeem Davis-Gaither is concerning as they were new to the list after attending last week. Budda Baker was seen working on the side, indicating a minor injury. Linebacker Zaven Collins confirmed that Sweat has been present in the building, heightening anticipation for his on-field debut.

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 have had a mixed bag of success with their second-round draft picks over the past decade. Players like Budda Baker and Trey McBride have emerged as stars, with Baker being a consistent Pro Bowler and McBride recording a record-setting season with 111 receptions. However, others like Andy Isabella and BJ Ojulari have underwhelmed, with Isabella never fully realizing his potential and Ojulari missing significant time with injuries.

In 2020 and 2016, the Cardinals traded away their second-round picks for high-profile players, DeAndre Hopkins and Chandler Jones, respectively. While these trades brought immediate impact, the opportunity to develop young talent was sacrificed. The latest picks, Max Melton and BJ Ojulari, remain to be seen in terms of their long-term contributions. As the Cardinals approach the 2025 draft, assessing the effectiveness of their second-round selections will be crucial for future roster development.

The Philadelphia Eagles are making another strategic move in free agency, signing former New York Giants pass rusher Azeez Ojulari to a one-year, $4 million deal. Ojulari, who was a second-round draft pick in 2021, made a strong rookie impression by setting a franchise record with eight sacks. However, injuries hindered his performance in subsequent seasons, as he missed a total of 22 games over the last three years. Despite these setbacks, he still managed to rack up impressive stats, including 5.5 sacks in just seven games in 2022 and six sacks in 11 games in 2024.

Ojulari's addition comes after the Eagles lost defensive end Josh Sweat to the Arizona Cardinals, who signed him to a lucrative four-year deal worth $76 million. The Eagles are also bolstering their pass-rush depth by signing Josh Uche, a player with a notable 11.5 sacks in 2022. Meanwhile, the Giants are working to fill the gap left by Ojulari's departure by signing Chauncey Golston, who had a solid season with the Cowboys. This offseason has been pivotal for both teams as they continue to restructure their rosters.