What if Things Work Out for the Arizona Cardinals in 2026?

The conversation focused on envisioning an optimistic scenario for the Arizona Cardinals in 2026, exploring what would need to happen for "everything to work out" for the franchise. One concept discussed was the possibility of the offense surprising everyone and becoming a top-12 unit, regardless of who starts at quarterback. The discussion explored which players would need to step up for this to happen, highlighting names like Jacoby Brissett, Jeremiyah Love, Trey McBride, Marvin Harrison Jr., Michael Wilson, Chase Bisontis, and Tyler Allgeier. Several points were raised, including the importance of offensive cohesion, the impact of a much-improved right side of the offensive line, and how a quarterback-friendly system might maximize the talent already on the roster. A key theme that emerged was the critical role of the defense's health and cohesion. The episode emphasized how players such as Walter Nolen, Will Johnson, Garrett Williams, Josh Sweat, Mac Wilson, Denzel Burke, and Budda Baker could change the team's defensive outlook if they avoid injuries and gel quickly. The importance of an improved pass rush, particularly from the interior, was discussed as a "skeleton key" for disrupting opposing offenses and making life easier for the entire defense. The conversation also touched on misconceptions about the Cardinals' talent pool, suggesting that the team’s roster features more high-potential players than generally recognized. The discussion highlighted how even marginal statistical improvements—like a higher conversion rate on fourth-and-one—could translate into more wins. Ultimately, the episode painted a picture in which the Cardinals, through a combination of player development, health, and effective coaching from Michael LaFleur and his staff, could have a surprisingly competitive season, potentially attracting free agents and establishing proof of concept for the team's long-term direction. Let's discuss.   Photo Credit: Jerome Miron - Imagn Images   Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started nowSquare Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/lockedonnfl! #squarepod Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)     Find and follow Locked On Cardinals on your favorite podcast platforms:     Apple https://apple.co/3gzT6Pg Spotify https://spoti.fi/3wsOL7a Audacy https://bit.ly/3xdaqjU Stitcher https://bit.ly/3cFWffn Google https://buff.ly/2yH7WOl Megaphone https://bit.ly/2RUBlC5 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.