The Arizona Cardinals received a significant boost to their defensive front on Monday, May 18, 2026, as the team officially activated edge rusher BJ Ojulari from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. This timely move, coming just ahead of the start of training camp, signals that the former second-round pick is fully recovered and ready to contribute to the team's defense after an extended rehabilitation period.
Ojulari, who sustained a knee injury late in the 2025 season, had been sidelined throughout the offseason workout program and mandatory minicamp. His initial placement on the PUP list at training camp start was largely procedural, reflecting a cautious approach as he continued to build strength and confidence. Now, with his activation, the coaching staff and medical team clearly trust Ojulari to participate fully in contact drills from Day One.
For a Cardinals defense undergoing a substantial transformation under head coach Mike LaFleur and defensive coordinator Nick Rallis, getting Ojulari back on the field is a pivotal development. The organization has invested heavily in revamping the front seven this offseason, and Ojulari's explosiveness off the edge complements the power and versatility already present on the roster.
A Key Piece of the Pass-Rush Puzzle
Selected in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of LSU, BJ Ojulari quickly established himself as a disruptive edge presence with impressive bend and burst. In his rookie season, he recorded 5.5 sacks, eight quarterback hits, and forced a fumble, showing flashes of the dynamic pass rusher the Cardinals hoped to develop.
His sophomore campaign was even more promising until the knee injury prematurely ended his season. Through 12 games in 2025, Ojulari had tallied six sacks and 12 quarterback pressures, reflecting improved hand technique and a more refined approach to pass rushing. The injury, which occurred on a non-contact play during Week 14 against the Seattle Seahawks, was a significant setback for both Ojulari and a defense that was beginning to coalesce.
With his return from PUP status, the Cardinals regain a player who was shaping up to be a cornerstone of their pass rush. The timing could not be better as the team looks to build chemistry and depth at a critical position.
What This Means for the Defensive Depth Chart
The Cardinals' edge rusher group looks notably different than it did a year ago. Veterans like L.J. Collier and newcomer Josh Sweat will compete alongside returning standouts Zaven Collins and Baron Browning, creating a competitive and versatile rotation.
Ojulari's skill set is distinct from many of his peers. While Sweat offers length and power, and Collins blends coverage skills with blitzing ability, Ojulari remains the purest speed rush specialist among them. His ability to consistently bend around the edge on critical third-and-long situations was sorely missed during spring workouts.
Defensive coordinator Nick Rallis is expected to employ situational substitutions extensively, and Ojulari is projected to fill the designated pass rusher role on obvious passing downs. He will likely rotate with Browning and Sweat to maintain fresh legs, especially late in games when defensive pressure is paramount.
The activation also indicates improved health across the roster catching the team's stride heading into camp. Quarterback Jacoby Brissett and the revamped offense under offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett will benefit from a defense that can instill pressure without heavy reliance on blitzing.
A Defense Built to Attack
The Cardinals have openly emphasized their desire to generate pressure from the front four rather than through persistent blitzing. The addition of interior disruptors like defensive tackle Walter Nolen III, along with development from second-year defensive end Darius Robinson, adds new dimensions to the front seven's capability compared to 2025.
Ojulari's ability to win one-on-one matchups on the edge is vital to this strategic emphasis. Consistent pressure from the defensive line allows the secondary to play more aggressively, leading to increased turnovers. The Cardinals have invested considerably in secondary talent, with promising young cornerbacks Will Johnson and Max Melton, alongside All-Pro safety Budda Baker.
Ojulari's return isn't merely about numbers--it changes how offenses must scheme against the Cardinals. Without a proven edge rusher on the opposite side, opponents could tee off against Sweat or over-position protection to neutralize one side of the pass rush. Ojulari's presence forces offenses to allocate resources more cautiously, opening opportunities for other defenders to impact the game.
The Road Ahead
Training camp will serve as the first chance to evaluate Ojulari's knee strength in live practice, particularly against the Cardinals' upgraded offensive line. The line features increased depth and competition, with players like Josh Fryar and Christian Jones pushing starters. Watching Ojulari match up against tackles such as Paris Johnson Jr. in one-on-one drills will be among the early highlights of camp.
Though there is no official limitation on his snap count entering camp, the team is expected to monitor his workload prudently. The priority is to have Ojulari healthy and explosive for the regular season opener, rather than rushing his recovery for early practice performances. Given his competitive nature, Ojulari is expected to push himself but will likely work closely with medical staff to avoid setbacks.
For a Cardinals team aiming to compete within a stacked NFC West, a healthy and motivated BJ Ojulari could significantly bolster the pass rush and overall defensive effectiveness. His activation from PUP marks a new chapter in his development and the team's defensive potential.
The Arizona Cardinals just got a little more dangerous.