Arizona Cardinals 2026 Training Camp Preview: Overcoming Challenges and Building for the Future
The NFL offseason is in full swing as teams kick off their organized team activities. Over the next three weeks, teams will have OTAs before a month-long break leading up to training camp in mid-to-end July. This article provides a preview of the Arizona Cardinals' 2026 training camp.
The Cardinals' voluntary OTAs are scheduled for May 18-19, May 21, May 26-27, May 29, June 1-2, and June 4, with mandatory minicamp set for June 8-10. Training camp is expected to start in mid-July, with the NFL Hall of Fame game on Aug. 6. The team has made several offseason changes, including acquiring players like Gardner Minshew, Tyler Allgeier, and Kendrick Bourne, among others.
In the 2026 NFL Draft, the Cardinals selected players like Jeremiyah Love, Chase Bisontis, and Carson Beck in various rounds. The team also has key players like Kyler Murray, Emari Demercado, and Calais Campbell on their roster. Despite finishing with a 3-14 record last season, the Cardinals face challenges with a roster that needs significant improvement.
New head coach Mike LaFleur faces a tough task with a roster that is considered one of the weakest in the league. Starting quarterback Jacoby Brissett is holding out for a better contract, but the team could potentially move on from him to save cap space. Running back Jeremiyah Love and wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. are highlighted as key players on the team, but overall, the offense lacks depth and talent.
The Cardinals' defense ranked 27th in the league last season, with limited star power aside from Josh Sweat, who is rumored to be on the trade block. Competing in the tough NFC West division against strong teams like the Rams, 49ers, and Seahawks, the Cardinals face an uphill battle to secure wins next season. Expectations for the team are modest, with only three or four wins predicted for the upcoming season.
In conclusion, the Arizona Cardinals face significant challenges heading into the 2026 season, with a roster that lacks depth and star power. The team will need to make significant improvements to compete in a tough division and secure wins in the upcoming season.