The Arizona Cardinals addressed a need for depth at wide receiver by signing veteran Ihmir Smith-Marsette to a contract for the 2026 NFL season, the team announced recently. Smith-Marsette, 26, is a journeyman wideout who entered the league in 2021 and has spent time with the Minnesota Vikings, Chicago Bears, Carolina Panthers, and Kansas City Chiefs. Primarily utilized as a return specialist and situational offensive weapon, he brings speed and versatility to a Cardinals receiving room led by star Marvin Harrison Jr. and second-year pro Michael Wilson.
In the 2025 season, Smith-Marsette appeared in 12 games for the Chiefs, recording 8 receptions for 97 yards and adding 12 kick returns for 273 yards. His signing indicates the Cardinals' intent to improve special teams and provide reliable depth behind their top receivers, especially after placing Harrison Jr. on injured reserve late in the 2025 season. Smith-Marsette is not expected to be a primary starter, but his experience and athleticism could contribute in multiple phases. This move represents a low-risk, high-reward addition as the Cardinals begin shaping their roster for the 2026 campaign, aiming to bounce back from a disappointing 3-14 finish.
