PHX Reporter

The Arizona Cardinals improved their performance in 2024, doubling their win total to eight victories after two consecutive seasons with only four wins. As the team prepares for the 2025 season, General Manager Monti Ossenfort aims to further enhance the roster through free agency.

Since Ossenfort and Head Coach Jonathan Gannon joined the Cardinals, strengthening the offensive line has been a priority. Their efforts have been reflected in running back James Conner's back-to-back seasons of over 1,000 rushing yards. The offensive line's improvement is credited as much to Conner as it is to the players up front.

A key player on this line is center Hjalte Froholdt. Before joining the Cardinals, Froholdt played both guard and center positions but excelled at center upon his arrival in Arizona. His strong performance in 2023 earned him a contract extension before the 2024 season.

The Cardinals have also invested in their tackles by drafting Paris Johnson Jr. in 2023 and moving him from right tackle to left tackle despite an injury-shortened season. Johnson will work again with Justin Frye, his former coach at Ohio State and now the Cardinals' offensive line coach. Jonah Williams, another tackle, showed promise but was hindered by knee injuries during part of last season.

As free agency approaches, attention will likely focus on enhancing depth within the interior offensive line. Tackle Kelvin Beachum and guards Evan Brown and Will Hernandez are set to become free agents after contributing significantly during the previous season. If not re-signed, younger players like Isaiah Adams and Christian Jones may step into larger roles.

The list of notable past signings includes several players who have contributed to strengthening the team's offensive line over recent years.