Projecting Roles for Every Arizona Cardinals Free Agent
The Arizona Cardinals enter the 2025 offseason with several key decisions to make regarding their free agents. The team is in the midst of a rebuild, and how they handle these impending free agents will have a significant impact on the team’s future trajectory. From unrestricted free agents to those with the potential to be re-signed or let go, here’s a projection of what roles the Cardinals could play for each of their free agents.
1. Kyler Murray – Quarterback (Potential Franchise Player)
Although Kyler Murray is under contract, the conversation surrounding his future remains a topic of discussion. However, with the new coaching regime led by Jonathan Gannon, the Arizona Cardinals will likely remain committed to Murray as their starting quarterback. His ability to make plays with his legs, paired with a strong arm, should position him as a centerpiece in the Cardinals’ rebuild. As the face of the franchise, Murray’s role as a long-term leader is likely to remain intact, barring a surprising trade scenario.
2. James Conner – Running Back (Key Veteran Leader)
James Conner is a reliable veteran presence in the backfield for Arizona. Though injury concerns have always lingered, Conner’s leadership and ability to take over games when healthy make him a valuable asset. The Cardinals may seek to retain him on a short-term deal to provide a stabilizing influence for the younger players and to help develop any new offensive system the team may implement. A reduced role, splitting duties with younger running backs, could also be in the cards.
3. Zach Allen – Defensive End (Potential Star and Key Re-signing)
Zach Allen emerged as one of Arizona’s most disruptive defensive linemen in recent seasons. With his contract expiring, the Cardinals will likely prioritize bringing him back. Allen could be the cornerstone of the team’s defensive line moving forward. His ability to generate pressure on the quarterback and provide solid run defense makes him a key player to retain as the Cardinals rebuild their defense.
4. Byron Murphy Jr. – Cornerback (Starting Cornerback)
Byron Murphy Jr. has shown potential as one of Arizona’s top cornerbacks when healthy. However, injuries have plagued his time with the team. If the Cardinals are willing to re-sign Murphy, they will likely expect him to be a starting cornerback on the outside, providing both leadership and solid coverage. The team may need to invest in additional depth at the cornerback position, but Murphy has the potential to remain a foundational piece if he can stay on the field.
5. Josh Jones – Offensive Tackle (Starting Left or Right Tackle)
Josh Jones has shown flashes of promise as a versatile offensive lineman, capable of playing both guard and tackle. With the Cardinals’ offensive line needing improvement, Jones could be positioned as a long-term starter at either the left or right tackle spot. His continued development will be crucial to the offensive line’s success, and the team will likely keep him around as they build for the future.
6. Matt Prater – Kicker (Veteran Specialist)
As one of the more reliable kickers in the NFL, Matt Prater may be entering the final stages of his career. The Cardinals may look to retain Prater for one more season, especially with his veteran experience and reliability in high-pressure situations. However, if the team decides to go younger, they may look for an upgrade at the kicker position, but it’s likely that Prater stays for one more season.
7. Will Hernandez – Offensive Guard (Starting Guard)
Will Hernandez is a reliable starter on the interior of the offensive line, and he’ll likely continue to play a starting role in the coming season. Given the importance of a strong offensive line to a rebuilding team, the Cardinals could keep Hernandez around to maintain stability within their trenches.
Conclusion: A Mixed Bag for Free Agents
The Arizona Cardinals will face some tough decisions when it comes to their free agents. While some veterans like Conner and Prater may be given reduced roles or short-term deals, players like Allen, Jones, and Murphy could be central to the team’s long-term success. Ultimately, the Cardinals’ front office will need to balance the desire for veteran leadership with the need to develop younger talent as they look to rebuild into a contender.
