While the head coaching search dominates headlines, the Arizona Cardinals' players are already shifting their focus to the 2026 season, with several key figures offering candid reflections on a year they'd rather forget. Simultaneously, General Manager Monti Ossenfort has begun the granular work of roster construction, signing depth pieces and planning for free agency.
In a feature published on January 19, star wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. characterized his second NFL season as "incomplete." Despite showing flashes of elite talent, injuries hampered his ability to make the significant statistical leap many anticipated following his promising rookie campaign. Harrison Jr., now a veteran leader entering his third season, remains the unequivocal centerpiece of the Cardinals' offensive future, and his full health is paramount for any 2026 turnaround.
He wasn't the only young star looking ahead. Defensive lineman Darius Robinson, also speaking on January 19, discussed entering a pivotal third season. After a solid sophomore year, Robinson emphasized a positive and focused offseason aimed at becoming a more consistent force on the defensive front.
A bright spot in the receiving corps was Michael Wilson, who surpassed 1,000 receiving yards for the first time in his career during the season finale on January 4. His emergence provides a crucial complementary weapon to Harrison Jr. The offensive line and tight end rooms also boast foundational talent, with left tackle Paris Johnson Jr. and tight end Trey McBride recently honored with PFWA awards for their 2025 performances.
On the transaction front, Ossenfort has been active. The team solidified its offseason roster by signing four practice squad players to reserve/future contracts on January 6: linebacker Elliott Brown, defensive back Jaden Davis (a 2024 7th-round pick entering his third year), wide receiver Bryson Green, and linebacker Eku Leota. In a move to add veteran depth at receiver, the Cardinals signed journeyman Ihmir Smith-Marsette on January 21.
These additions come as the team officially bid farewell to eight players who became free agents on January 13, including veteran wide receiver Trent Sherfield and quarterback Logan Woodside. Furthermore, the team must navigate the rehabilitation of several key starters, including quarterback Kyler Murray (foot) and running back James Conner (ankle surgery), whose health will be a major storyline throughout the spring and summer.