**GLENDALE - The Arizona Cardinals' 2026 season is shaping up to be a pivotal one for general manager Monti Ossenfort. After enduring a tough 3-14 season, changes were inevitable, with both the head coach and starting quarterback shown the door.
Surprisingly, Ossenfort remains, and this offseason is crucial if he wants to keep his job. However, his free-agent signings have left some fans scratching their heads.
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After missing out on top free agent quarterback Malik Willis, the Cardinals shifted their focus, opting to spread their funds across several low-cost additions. Ossenfort brought in nine new players, but the question remains: is it enough?
Cardinals' New Additions in Free Agency:
- RB Tyler Allgeier
- LS Casey Kreiter
- QB Gardner Minshew II
- OL Matt Pryor
- OL Elijah Wilkinson
- DL Jonah Williams
- OL Isaac Seumalo
- WR Kendrick Bourne
- S Andrew Wingard
The standout signing is former Pittsburgh Steelers guard Isaac Seumalo, who inked a three-year, $31.5 million deal. At 32, Seumalo was candid about his reasons for joining Arizona, citing the financial aspect. Regardless, his addition, along with Matt Pryor and Elijah Wilkinson, brings much-needed depth to the offensive line.
Top remaining free agents, including tackles Rasheed Walker and Taylor Decker, are still on the market. However, with Paris Johnson Jr. and newly signed Wilkinson expected to start at tackle, pursuing Walker and Decker seems unlikely for Ossenfort.
One challenge with the remaining free agents is their age. The Cardinals appear content with Jacoby Brissett as their starting quarterback for 2026, despite his 1-11 record last year. The franchise seems to be eyeing a high 2027 draft pick, despite public statements from Ossenfort and owner Michael Bidwill about aiming to win next season.
Outside of Walker and WR Jauan Jennings, most top free agents are in their 30s. The Cardinals should focus on developing young talent on both sides of the ball.
Without a blockbuster trade, which Ossenfort has yet to accomplish, the team's attention is turning to the draft. With the third overall pick, the Cardinals are likely to target the defensive side, having invested heavily in the offense during free agency. If Ossenfort selects a defensive edge like Miami’s Rueben Bain Jr., he’ll address two major needs: the offensive line and pass rush.
Whether these moves will make the Cardinals competitive in 2026 is uncertain. Ossenfort’s approach this free agency raises questions, especially with his job on the line and another 3-14 season unacceptable.