The Arizona Cardinals have made significant changes to their inside linebacker lineup as part of a broader defensive overhaul. General Manager Monti Ossenfort has focused on enhancing the team’s defense throughout the offseason, with notable adjustments at various positions.
A key change is the departure of Kyzir White, who had been central to the Cardinals’ defense for two seasons. White was known for his leadership and was instrumental in establishing a new team culture under head coach Jonathan Gannon. His jersey number 7 has since been reassigned to quarterback Jacoby Brissett, indicating White’s exit from Arizona.
To fill the void left by White and Krys Barnes, who was not re-signed, the Cardinals have acquired free agents Akeem Davis-Gaither and Mykal Walker. Additionally, they drafted Cody Simon from Ohio State. While neither Davis-Gaither nor Walker have extensive starting experience, the team sees potential in their fit within Nick Rallis’ defensive scheme. Mack Wilson Sr., another player without a consistent starting history before joining Arizona, remains part of this evolving lineup.
Cody Simon’s role at Ohio State involved playing a position similar to what he might face with the Cardinals. However, as a rookie selected in the fourth round, adapting quickly to an NFL starting role could be challenging. The Cardinals experienced similar challenges in 2021 when Zaven Collins struggled initially, leading to veteran Jordan Hicks reclaiming his spot on the field.
The responsibility of wearing the “Green Dot,” or being the defensive play-caller on-field, will be crucial for shaping this revamped defense’s success in the upcoming season.
Jeremy Chen/Arizona Cardinals
LB Akeem Davis-Gaither
