With just 54 days until the Arizona Cardinals commence their 2025 season against the New Orleans Saints, a nostalgic look back reveals the impactful players who have donned the No. 54 jersey. Current linebacker Xavier Thomas, a second-year player from the 2024 draft, carries this legacy forward.

The history of No. 54 for the Cardinals is rich, featuring prominent figures such as Dwight Freeney, known for his Hall of Fame career, and Gerald Hayes, a key defensive player in the early 2000s. Others include Kenny Demens and Sio Moore, who also made their marks in various capacities. This lineage highlights both the depth and evolution of the Cardinals' defense over the years.