The Arizona Cardinals went just 4-13 last season, but fans have plenty to be excited about, namely franchise quarterback Kyler Murray’s return to health, a potential game-breaking addition to the team at the No. 4 overall pick, and the $51.8 million in cap space to work with.
A major area of need for the Cardinals is the run defense, where Arizona was worst in the NFL last year and surrendered 143.2 yards per game.
ESPN’s Josh Weinfuss is reporting that the Cardinals’ main focus in free agency will be on the defensive side of the ball, with Dolphins star defensive tackle Christian Wilkins being a “high” priority for the team.
Arizona also finished with the 3rd-fewest sacks in the NFL with just 33.
Dennis Gardeck led the team with only six sacks.
Wilkins is coming off a career-high nine sacks in 2023 and has played every game over the past three seasons.
Wilkins has become one of the league’s premier defensive tackles and could be looking at a contract pushing nine figures.
The Baltimore Ravens just gave Justin Madubuike a 4-year, $98 million deal, which could be a comparable benchmark for Wilkins as he hits free agency for the first time.
Miami surrendered just 97.1 rushing yards per game and was third in the NFL with 56 sacks in 2023 with Wilkins leading the charge.
His impact on defense is undeniable and would be a major upgrade over Cardinals current free agent defensive tackle Leki Fotu.
It’s great to see the Cardinals aiming high, but Wilkins will surely be one of the most highly-coveted free agents available
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