PHX Reporter

The Arizona Cardinals have shown improvement by doubling their win total in 2024, achieving eight victories compared to the previous two seasons of four wins each. As the team prepares for the 2025 season, General Manager Monti Ossenfort is focused on enhancing the roster through free agency before turning to the draft.

Monti Ossenfort has been recognized for assembling strong draft classes, but his immediate focus will be on securing talent during free agency. The Cardinals' schedule for free agent primers includes wide receivers on March 3, offensive line on March 5, and defensive line on March 6. Other positions like outside linebacker, tight end, quarterback, secondary, special teams, and running back are also being considered.

Currently under contract for 2025 are inside linebackers Mack Wilson Sr., Milo Eifler, Owen Pappoe, and Vi Jones with respective cap hits listed by OverTheCap.com. Kyzir White has been a key player since joining the team alongside coaches Jonathan Gannon and Nick Rallis from Philadelphia. He became a captain upon his arrival in Arizona.

Following the conclusion of the 2024 season, White posted photos with a caption reading "Thank you AZ," suggesting he might explore other opportunities as a free agent. However, Monti Ossenfort stated that re-signing current players is a priority for the organization, including White.

If no agreement is reached with White by March 12th, he will be available to negotiate with all NFL teams but could still return to Arizona if terms are agreed upon later. Another player approaching free agency is Krys Barnes who has been signed by the Cardinals in consecutive seasons on one-year contracts.

Last year saw Mack Wilson Sr. join the team as an inside linebacker known for his versatility to play off the edge as well. Confidence remains high in Owen Pappoe entering his third season; he has been an essential part of special teams while participating in 131 defensive snaps.

With various options available in free agency this offseason awaits whether Ossenfort will secure new talents or retain existing leaders such as their two-time captain.

Some notable past signings include Mack Wilson (2024), Kyzir White (2023), De'Vondre Campbell (2020), Jordan Hicks (2019), Josh Bynes (2017), Karlos Dansby (2017), LaMarr Woodley (2015), Larry Foote (2014), Dansby again (2013), Paris Lenon (2010), and Seth Joyner back in 1994.