In 2025, Evan Brown of the Arizona Cardinals has switched from wearing No. 62 to No. 63, his preferred number from college at SMU. Brown, who started as the left guard during the previous season, has a history of number changes throughout his career, wearing various numbers with previous teams including No. 67 and No. 68 with the New York Giants and Miami Dolphins. The decision to switch was seamless since No. 62 was not currently in use on the roster.

The Arizona Cardinals have been active in the early stages of NFL free agency, making significant moves to bolster their roster. Their primary acquisitions include defensive lineman Dalvin Tomlinson, offensive lineman Evan Brown, and linebacker Josh Sweat. Tomlinson, signed for two years at $29 million, is seen as a notable upgrade, able to disrupt both the run and pass effectively. Brown, while not elite, brings solid value at under $6 million annually. Sweat adds much-needed pass rush potential for $19 million per year, aiming for at least eight sacks to justify his contract.

These signings highlight the Cardinals' strategy of making calculated investments in proven players rather than overpaying for unproven talent. Tomlinson, with a strong track record, is expected to make an immediate impact. Brown is viewed as a reliable depth piece for the offensive line, providing flexibility and stability. Meanwhile, Sweat's performance will be crucial for the Cardinals' defensive lineup as they transition into the next season.

The Detroit Lions' offense continues to shine, ranked as one of the league's best in 2024. With the addition of new offensive coordinator John Morton, the team is poised for further enhancement heading into the 2025 season. Though known for their cautious approach to free agency, the Lions are set to explore opportunities to bolster their roster with ten external free agents who fit their style. Notable candidates include Tyler Lockett, a veteran receiver with extensive experience, and offensive linemen like Will Hernandez and Daniel Brunskill, both of whom could enhance the Lions’ blocking schemes. Morton’s familiarity with players like Javonte Williams—a versatile RB—suggests a potential for interesting plays. Additionally, the return of Josh Reynolds and a backup quarterback competition could further enrich the offensive dynamics.

The Arizona Cardinals have focused their new direction on strengthening their offensive line and enhancing their run game. During the 2023 offseason, they signed veteran interior offensive lineman Evan Brown to a one-year, $2.35 million contract. His impact on the team was significant as he started all 17 games in the 2024 season, demonstrating exceptional durability and performance. Brown's statistics reveal he allowed just two sacks and 20 QB pressures over 1,070 snaps, which is a testament to his pass protection skills, earning a Pro Football Focus pass-blocking grade of 73.5.

Despite being in a run-first offense, Brown's role was crucial for quarterback Kyler Murray, especially given Murray's smaller stature and mobility. The Cardinals will face a decision regarding Brown's future as he becomes a free agent. Retaining him could bolster their offensive line, providing the stability needed as they develop younger players like Isaiah Adams, who excels in run-blocking but struggles in pass protection. The Cardinals would benefit significantly from securing Brown for another season.

The Carolina Panthers are set to host the Arizona Cardinals in their final home game of the 2024 NFL season. While the Panthers are out of playoff contention, the game is crucial for the development of their young quarterback, Bryce Young. The Cardinals, still in the hunt for the NFC West, need a win to stay competitive.

Injury concerns plague both teams, with key players like Robert Hunt and Ickey Ekwonu questionable for Carolina, and Paris Johnson Jr. ruled out for Arizona. The matchup is particularly significant as it features two former number one overall draft picks, Young and Kyler Murray, who are often compared due to their similar skill sets.

With Arizona favored by five points, the game will likely hinge on the performance of running back James Conner against Carolina's struggling run defense. If the Panthers can't contain Conner, their chances of an upset diminish significantly.