The Arizona Cardinals concluded their offseason program, giving valuable insights into their potential performance for the upcoming season. Cornerback Will Johnson's recovery remains uncertain, as he grapples with knee and hamstring concerns. The first-round pick, Walter Nolen, showcased explosive agility, impressing coaches and veteran players alike. The offensive strategy is expected to remain familiar but with enhancements aimed at maximizing Kyler Murray's playmaking abilities with creative pre-snap motions. Key rookies, including Nolen and Johnson, appear poised for significant roles, while Mack Wilson is in the running for the starting middle linebacker position.

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, the Indianapolis Colts are contemplating their roster and potential additions. The focus has shifted towards Kyzir White, an impactful linebacker currently available in free agency. White, a fourth-round pick from the 2018 NFL Draft, previously showcased his versatility as both a safety and linebacker for the LA Chargers. His agility and tackling ability stand out, making him a prime candidate to bolster the Colts' defense, particularly alongside star linebacker Zaire Franklin.

Bringing in White could provide the Colts with that three-down linebacker they need, enhancing their defensive unit. His experience and playstyle align well with the Colts’ current system, potentially elevating their competitive edge in the upcoming season.

Arizona Cardinals linebackers continue to receive little recognition in the NFL landscape, as evidenced by Pro Football Focus's recent ranking of the top 32 off-ball linebackers, which included no Cardinals representatives. This glaring omission highlights the team's struggles to cultivate standout talent at this crucial position. Kyzir White, although a capable player, has yet to showcase his potential on other rosters. Meanwhile, Mack Wilson's rise to full-time play last season after limited snaps raises concerns about depth and performance consistency.

The Cardinals roster features players like Owen Pappoe, primarily known for special teams, and Akeem Davis-Gaither, who holds a modest track record with just 11 career starts in five seasons. This situation begs the question: Is the organization's approach to scouting and developing linebackers failing, or are they simply stuck in a rebuilding phase?

The Arizona Cardinals are reshaping their roster with significant changes as they enter the offseason. Key free agents such as Kyzir White, Jesse Luketa, and Dennis Gardeck are unlikely to return. White and Gardeck were both starters and team captains, but their jersey numbers have been reassigned—White's No. 7 to Jacoby Brissett and Gardeck's No. 45 to rookie Oscar Cardenas. Luketa, who ended last season on injured reserve, was not tendered and has yet to find a new team, with his No. 43 now belonging to Mykal Walker.

This move hints at the Cardinals' commitment to moving forward without these veterans as they look to integrate new talent like Akeem Davis-Gaither and rookie Cody Simon into the defensive lineup. Although Will Hernandez still has his No. 76 available, which leaves a glimmer of hope for his return, other free agents like Krys Barnes are also on the chopping block. As the offseason progresses, these roster decisions will shape the team's identity heading into the upcoming season.

The Arizona Cardinals have made a significant addition to their roster in the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting linebacker Cody Simon in the fourth round. Simon stands out as the rookie with the best chance of securing a starting position, especially with the departure of Kyzir White and Krys Barnes. His athleticism and intelligence on the field could potentially see him taking over the Mike linebacker position.

With Akeem Davis-Gaither and Mykal Walker onboard, both primarily special teams players throughout their careers, Simon’s ability to perform could influence whether he starts or takes on a rotational role. If Pappoe continues to excel, Simon might see limited action, possibly even ending up inactive on game days.