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Cardinals Focus on O-Line and Running Back in Draft

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, February 4th 2026 at 17:03 GMT by AZ Central
      Locales: Arizona, UNITED STATES

Arizona Cardinals: A New Foundation

The Arizona Cardinals are firmly entrenched in the offseason, conducting a thorough post-mortem of a disappointing 2025 season. The team finished with a losing record, prompting a deep dive into player performance and strategic shortcomings. Head coach, whose name remains unconfirmed at the time of writing, and his staff are dedicating significant time to film review, dissecting mistakes and identifying areas for improvement.

The upcoming 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be a pivotal event for the Cardinals. Sources indicate a strong emphasis will be placed on fortifying the offensive line. The consistent pressure absorbed by quarterback Kyler Murray throughout the 2025 season highlighted a critical weakness, and addressing it is seen as paramount. Alongside bolstering the line, the Cardinals are also actively seeking a dependable running back to provide a consistent ground game and alleviate pressure on the passing attack.

Free agency discussions are ongoing, but the Cardinals appear to be proceeding cautiously, prioritizing strategic additions over splashy signings. The team's salary cap situation necessitates a measured approach, and they are likely to target undervalued players who can contribute immediately without breaking the bank. A significant focus will be on players who can fill specific needs and contribute to a culture of resilience and improved performance.

Arizona Diamondbacks: Shaping the Roster for Spring

The Diamondbacks are rapidly approaching Spring Training, and manager Gabe Guerrero is meticulously crafting the 26-man roster. The team showed promise in the previous season, reaching the playoffs but falling short of a championship run. Building on that foundation is now the primary objective.

The most pressing concern for the Diamondbacks remains pitching depth. The starting rotation, while possessing top-tier talent, lacks reliable options beyond the first three. Guerrero and the front office are actively exploring both trade opportunities and free agent signings to bolster the rotation and ensure consistent performance throughout the grueling 162-game season. Names circulating in trade rumors include several veteran pitchers seeking to join a contender.

Beyond pitching, the Diamondbacks are also evaluating their outfield depth and seeking to add a versatile utility player who can provide valuable contributions both offensively and defensively. The goal is to assemble a well-rounded roster capable of competing with the top teams in the National League West.

Arizona Coyotes: The Looming Relocation Question

The Arizona Coyotes are facing a potentially franchise-altering crisis. Contract negotiations with the city of Phoenix have reportedly reached an impasse, throwing the team's long-term future in Arizona into serious doubt. The core issue revolves around funding for a new arena, with the Coyotes ownership group seeking significant public investment.

With negotiations stalled, the ownership group is reportedly exploring arena options in other markets, fueling speculation about a potential relocation. While they publicly maintain a desire to remain in Arizona, the lack of progress in negotiations suggests a move is becoming increasingly likely.

Fan sentiment is understandably mixed, with many expressing disappointment, frustration, and a sense of betrayal. The Coyotes have struggled with arena issues for years, and this latest development has left many fans questioning the team's commitment to the Valley. A formal announcement regarding the team's future is expected within the next few weeks, leaving fans on edge.

Phoenix Suns: Injury Concerns and Championship Aspirations

The Phoenix Suns are navigating a challenging stretch, battling both injuries and a fiercely competitive Western Conference playoff race. Star guard Devin Booker is currently sidelined with a minor ankle sprain, which has undoubtedly impacted the team's offensive rhythm. His absence highlights the Suns' reliance on his scoring prowess and underscores the need for greater depth.

Analysts are questioning whether the Suns have enough firepower to contend for a championship this year, particularly given the depth of talent in the Western Conference. The team's bench has struggled to consistently provide quality minutes, and concerns are growing about their ability to withstand injuries and maintain a high level of play throughout the playoffs.

Trade rumors are swirling, with the Suns potentially exploring options to add a veteran player who can provide immediate impact and bolster their depth. However, the team's limited trade assets and salary cap constraints may make it difficult to acquire a significant upgrade. The next few weeks will be crucial for the Suns as they look to address their weaknesses and solidify their position as a championship contender.