Calais Campbell, defensive tackle for the Arizona Cardinals, said he has not yet decided if Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Rams was his last in the NFL. Speaking after the team’s season-ending loss, Campbell explained that time off is necessary after a long season. “For you to give it your all, you have to relax,” Campbell said. “You take a little break, let yourself decompress, and when you come back, you build, build, build, build.”
The Cardinals ended their 2025 campaign without reaching the postseason. Expectations had been high for improvement this year—a factor in Campbell’s decision to return—but the team did not meet those hopes.
Quarterback Jacoby Brissett faced heavy pressure during Sunday’s game but reported no physical issues afterward. “Just football,” Brissett said. On finishing the season: “It’s a little bittersweet,” he added. “You never want it to end.” Brissett’s future with the team remains uncertain.
Head coach Jonathan Gannon acknowledged that changes are needed as Arizona looks up at its division rivals’ performance levels. “We weren’t up to their level, that’s for sure,” Gannon said.
Tight end Trey McBride finished an outstanding season with 126 receptions for 1,239 yards and 11 touchdowns—setting both NFL and franchise records for his position. Despite seven catches in the final game, McBride was edged out by Rams receiver Puka Nacua (129 catches) for most receptions this season.
Wide receiver Michael Wilson reached 1,000 receiving yards on Sunday while playing near his hometown of Simi Valley. “My house is 30 minutes from here,” Wilson said. “I got a bunch of family, friends, my wife and daughter flew down for the game. It’s really special.” Brissett praised Wilson’s development: “That’s who you want to build your team around.”
Defensive lineman Josh Sweat recorded his career-high 12th sack of the year after returning from an ankle injury late in the season.
Kicker Joshua Karty joined Arizona late in the year as a possible backup option behind restricted free agent Chad Ryland; Ryland converted a 56-yard field goal on Sunday.
Safety Budda Baker played following a concussion and registered his 1,000th career tackle during Sunday’s contest.
Rookie cornerback Elijah Jones saw his first defensive snaps of the year due to injuries elsewhere in Arizona’s secondary and made several notable plays.
Campbell commented on strong performances by teammates Wilson and McBride: “I told Sweat, ‘You ain’t the best on the team no more, the way ’14’ is balling, ’14’ is the best player on the team.’ He was like, ’85 first.’ I was like OK. They are all incredible.”
The Cardinals now turn their attention to offseason preparations as they look ahead to next year.
