Cardinals best and worst contracts in 2025 free agency

Cameron wrote:

“Jonathan Gannon, Sweat’s defensive coordinator in Philadelphia during his breakout season in 2022, will help create a seamless transition for Sweat, who should instantly boost a Cardinals defense that ranked 31st in team PFF pass-rush grade last season (58.5).”

Sweat was widely considered the Cardinals’ number one target in free agency, as signing a premier edge rusher was essential for the franchise. Cameron pointed out Arizona’s abysmal pass rush last season, and with Sweat reuniting with his former defensive coordinator, that will certainly change. PFF rated the deal above average and certainly an understandable high cost for a quality player like Sweat.

Worst: L.J. Collier one year for $3 million

Cameron explained:

“Despite marginal contract costs, bringing back Collier after his struggles in the desert leaves something to be desired. While the Cardinals may have been priced out of the top of the market (Milton Williams), they held the requisite cap space to upgrade the interior and find a starting-caliber 5-technique, preferably one who could stand up against the run.”

While the contract is minimal in Arizona’s overall cap space, resigning Collier was questionable. Collier did play in all 17 games, being one of the few players on the Cardinals’ defense to stay healthy. In his 17 appearances, Collier records four tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, and 29 tackles. Regardless, the 29-year-old defensive tackle didn’t help improve a struggling run defense last year.

There was hope for the franchise to seek out an established defensive lineman to solidify the D-line, but Arizona couldn’t find an upgrade. Collier is only due $3 million and could always be due for a more productive 2025.