DEFENSIVE LINE HAS A LOT OF NEW TOOLS

The Arizona Cardinals' defensive line is shaping up to be one of the more intriguing storylines heading into the 2025 season. Unlike last year, when injuries and inconsistency plagued the unit, 2025 offers a fresh slate—and a roster infused with both experience and upside. The team may not be fielding the league's top-ranked front, but there's a real sense that this group is on the upswing.

A Healthy Mix of Veterans and Youth

There's something to be said for balance, and Arizona's D-line seems to have found it. Veterans like Justin Jones and Bilal Nichols bring leadership and grit to the interior. Although they were limited in 2024—playing only 15 combined games—their return to form could immediately raise the floor of this group. The addition of Dalvin Tomlinson, a free-agent pickup expected to shore up the run defense, adds much-needed stability.

At defensive end, Josh Sweat's arrival is a major win. He addresses a critical weakness: Arizona ranked 28th in pass-rush win rate last season. Sweat's motor and experience should boost their ability to pressure quarterbacks. Pair him with second-year man Darius Robinson, a 2024 first-round pick with breakout potential, and suddenly the pass rush looks a lot more promising.

Rotation, Rotation, Rotation

Under head coach Jonathan Gannon and DC Nick Rallis, the Cardinals are doubling down on rotational play up front. It's a smart move. Given the injury history of key players, spreading out snaps could help preserve legs and maintain performance deep into games. It also gives young guys like BJ Ojulari (coming off an ACL tear) and Dante Stills a chance to carve out defined roles.

The rotation also opens the door for situational standouts. Ojulari, for instance, might not be an every-down guy right away, but his quickness and high motor make him dangerous in passing situations. With players like P.J. Mustipher and Anthony Goodlow providing additional depth, Arizona finally seems to have options—not just placeholders.

A Few Wild Cards

Of course, potential is one thing; execution is another. Darius Robinson has all the tools to make a leap, but he’ll need to stay healthy and take that next step. The same goes for Nichols and Jones. Both have starting-caliber talent, but their ability to stay on the field will make or break this unit’s consistency.

One name to watch? Roy Lopez. Technically a free agent, he received glowing reviews from coaches who reportedly said, "If you had 90 Roys, you’d be good to go." A re-signing wouldn’t be surprising and could bring more muscle to the rotation.

Looking Ahead

The Cardinals' defense is projected to rank 18th in the league this year—a solid jump from 2024, and one largely attributed to the reshaped D-line. The unit might not be elite yet, but with smart player management and a bit of luck on the health front, it could easily become one of the team’s strengths.

All told, 2025 looks like a pivotal year for Arizona's defensive front. They have the talent. They have the coaching philosophy. Now it's just about putting it together week in and week out. If they can do that, don't be surprised if this group ends up being one of the league's better comeback stories.