PHX Reporter

The numbers, beyond just the outside linebackers room, indicated that some familiar names would not remain with the Cardinals this season.

Furthering a roster in line with Coach Jonathan Gannon's vision influenced Tuesday's decisions to finalize the 53-man roster. This process began when the team traded Cameron Thomas to the Kansas City Chiefs for a seventh-round draft pick in 2025. This transaction suggested that Thomas was unlikely to make the team.

Zaven Collins and Dennis Gardeck are expected to start, with Victor Dimukeje, Jesse Luketa, and rookie Xavier Thomas likely backing them up. Inside linebacker Mack Wilson Sr. will also take some snaps off the edge. Future moves and potential waiver claims could still alter these plans.

Thomas performed well in the final two preseason games, recording three sacks. However, his late-game reps and overall playing time indicated he was competing for a roster spot. The season-ending injury to BJ Ojulari created an opportunity, but Xavier Thomas's strong preseason performance changed the dynamics.

The rookie is primarily a pass rusher, while the rest of the outside linebacking corps can contribute both in rushing and coverage as required by defensive coordinator Nick Rallis. Cameron Thomas had been a healthy inactive for the last two games of 2023, foreshadowing his uphill battle this season.

Last season, Thomas recorded no sacks and three tackles for loss while playing 35 percent of defensive snaps across 15 games. The Chiefs' 4-3 scheme will allow him to play as a down lineman.

The trade provides the Cardinals with a seventh-round pick in 2025, which they previously lacked after trading their original pick to Carolina for wide receiver Robbie Anderson in 2022.