The Arizona Cardinals are a few weeks away from the start of training camp. They have started some position battles.
The defensive should look a bit different with offseason additions on the defensive line, at linebacker and cornerback.
Training camp and the preseason will determine who wins all the starting jobs, but here is what the starting lineup probably will look like in its base 3-4 formation.
DL: Justin Jones
Jones was their biggest addition money-wise on defense. He had a career year with rushing the passer last year and adds size and leadership.
DL Bilal Nichols
Nichols, a good friend of Jones, was another important addition.
DL Roy Lopez
The nose tackle position could go to Lopez. It could also go to free agent addition Khyiris Tonga. For now, Lopez gets the nod.
L.J. Collier, Darius Robinson and Dante Stills will all get playing time.
OLB Zaven Collins
Collins will be expected to be a starter again in his second year playing on the edge.
OLB BJ Ojulari
Ojulari should supplant Dennis Gardeck as the starter. The Cardinals need him to be the starter.
ILB Kyzir White
White was a starter and an every-down player before his injury. He will be that guy again in 2024.
ILB Mack Wilson
Krys Barnes could sneak his way in here, but Wilson was signed to a three-year deal. They anticipate him being a physical presence as a starter next to White.
CB Sean Murphy-Bunting
Murphy-Bunting was the veteran cornerback addition they made in the offseason, signing him to a three-year contract.
CB Garrett Williams
After playing exclusively in the slot last year when he returned from his ACL injury, he is expected to have a bigger role.
Who will be the third cornerback? The hope is that second-round pick Max Melton is that guy. But with Elijah Jones, Star Thomas and Kei’Trel Clark returning, there will be a battle.
S Budda Baker
No one questions this.
S Jalen Thompson
This is also the way it has been.
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