The Arizona Cardinals have made a significant addition to their defense by signing edge rusher Josh Sweat to a four-year, $76.4 million contract, including $41 million guaranteed.
Sweat’s Tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles
Sweat, 27, spent the first seven seasons of his NFL career with the Philadelphia Eagles. His tenure was highlighted by a standout performance in Super Bowl LIX, where he recorded 2.5 sacks and three quarterback hits, contributing to the Eagles’ victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.
Reunion with Coach Jonathan Gannon
This signing reunites Sweat with Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon, who previously served as the Eagles’ defensive coordinator. Under Gannon’s guidance, Sweat achieved a career-high 11 sacks in the 2022 season and earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2021.
Impact on the Cardinals’ Defense
The Cardinals struggled with their pass rush in the 2024 season, posting a 30.1% quarterback pressure rate, which ranked eighth-lowest in the NFL. Sweat’s addition aims to address this deficiency, bringing his proven ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Sweat has demonstrated consistent performance, accumulating 43 sacks, 237 tackles (54 for loss), and 97 quarterback hits over 104 games. In the 2024 season, he recorded eight sacks, 15 quarterback hits, and 41 tackles (nine for loss), contributing to Philadelphia’s top-rated defense.
Looking Ahead
The Cardinals’ aggressive pursuit of Sweat underscores their commitment to strengthening their defense for the upcoming season. By securing one of the top edge rushers available in free agency, Arizona aims to improve its defensive performance and competitiveness in the NFC West.
