The Arizona Cardinals' offseason has seen some surprising developments, particularly from rookie linebacker Cody Simon, their fourth-round pick from Ohio State. While much attention was directed at Marvin Harrison Jr.'s physical transformation, Simon has captured the interest of head coach Jonathan Gannon, who has praised Simon's quick learning abilities and eagerness to adapt. Wearing the green dot signifies his readiness for leadership on the field, a role typically occupied by more experienced players.

Gannon noted, "He's definitely flashed here. We got him playing a couple different spots, so that's good. He is playing on fourth down right now, so he is learning all that. He doesn't make mistakes twice and he's got juice." With the competition for starting inside linebacker positions heating up against veterans like Mack Wilson and Akeem Davis-Gaither, Simon’s progress will be a focal point as the team prepares for training camp.

ESPN has curated a list showcasing the best draft selections for all 262 picks in NFL history, spotlighting ten players specifically from the Arizona Cardinals. Notable names from the Cardinals include Hall of Famers and franchise legends, each representing pivotal moments in the team's drafting history.

These selections not only highlight exceptional individual talent but also signify crucial building blocks in the franchise's journey. The Cardinals' history in the draft has yielded standout athletes, contributing significantly to their competitive edge in the league.

Trey Benson, entering his second NFL season with the Arizona Cardinals, is poised to take on a more significant role as the backup running back behind James Conner. After being drafted in the third round last year, Benson's rookie year was met with gradual progression, raising expectations for his health and ability to handle increased responsibilities in the upcoming season. The Cardinals' training camp begins on July 22, where the focus will be on finalizing the roster and determining starting positions.

Benson's journey from Florida State to the NFL has been marked by challenges, but his potential to step up could be crucial for the Cardinals' offensive strategy. As the team gears up for the season, all eyes will be on how effectively Benson can adapt and contribute to the backfield alongside Conner.

James Conner, a running back for the Arizona Cardinals, is preparing for the 2025 training camp following a career-best 2024 season. Conner's impressive performance last year led to a well-deserved two-year contract extension worth $19 million, with a cap hit of $6.47 million for the upcoming season.

Entering his 30s, he aims to continue his high-performance level while potentially sharing carries with rookie Trey Benson. As the Cardinals approach training camp, the focus will be on evaluating players, determining roles, and forming the final roster ahead of the regular season.

Josh Sweat's transition to the Arizona Cardinals has been smooth, thanks to his prior relationship with head coach Jonathan Gannon and defensive coordinator Nick Rallis, who he thrived under in Philadelphia. The Pro Bowler signed a lucrative four-year, $76.4 million deal during the offseason, and his familiarity with Gannon's defensive philosophy is expected to accelerate his performance. Sweat noted that Gannon has taken on additional responsibilities as a head coach but remains consistent in his core values and communication style.

The Cardinals are optimistic that Sweat's integration into their defensive scheme, which has retained much of its underlying structure despite new terminology, will enhance their defensive performance. Gannon's trust in Sweat, given their history, could lead to a revitalized defensive front for Arizona.