PHX Reporter

As the NFL free agency period approaches, the Arizona Cardinals are focused on securing their current roster while eyeing potential new additions. General Manager Monti Ossenfort emphasized the importance of retaining key players like Budda Baker and James Conner, who recently received contract extensions for their significant contributions to the team.

"Those guys aren't going to market," Ossenfort stated, highlighting the importance of keeping valuable players within the organization. Another player potentially up for an extension is Pro Bowl tight end Trey McBride, who is entering the final year of his contract. "Trey is a priority for us," Ossenfort said during a media session at the Scouting Combine in Indianapolis.

McBride has expressed his desire to stay in Arizona, but no timeline has been set for contract negotiations. The Cardinals are also focused on re-signing several other players before they can officially talk to other teams starting March 10.

Defensive linemen L.J. Collier and Roy Lopez, offensive linemen Evan Brown, Will Hernandez, and Kelvin Beachum, as well as linebackers Kyzir White, Dennis Gardeck, and Baron Browning are among those needing new deals. "Once we go to market, anything can happen at that point," Ossenfort acknowledged.

The Cardinals have considerable cap space estimated between $71 million and $73 million by various sources. This financial flexibility allows them to make strategic decisions in free agency without overspending. "You don't want to just spend to spend," noted Ossenfort.

Ossenfort's strategy includes using free agency as a tool for building a strong roster ahead of the draft. "We talk about 'When we get through free agency, can we go out and play a game?'" he said.

The upcoming weeks will be critical as the Cardinals aim to secure their own talent while exploring opportunities in the open market.