Cardinals enter new season with major lack of elite talent - Arizona Sports

What the report says

Arizona Sports columnist Dan Bickley wrote that the Arizona Cardinals are entering training camp for the 2026 season facing unusually low expectations, with the central concern being a shortage of high-end players across the roster. In the July 21 column, Bickley argued that general manager Monti Ossenfort’s four drafts have not yet produced a Pro Bowl selection and said the team has only two players he views as top-10 at their positions: tight end Trey McBride and safety Budda Baker.

The column frames the issue as especially stark inside the NFC West, where Arizona is described as trailing more talented division rivals. Bickley also pointed to uncertainty at quarterback, referencing Jacoby Brissett, a strong backup situation and a rookie passer who spent six years in college. He noted the franchise’s 49 losses over the previous four years and poor NFLPA report cards as part of a broader picture of organizational strain.

Bickley identified the season as important for new head coach Mike LaFleur, saying Arizona needs leadership strong enough to establish credibility and change the team’s direction. He also described 2026 as a potential turning point for Ossenfort, whose rebuild may depend on major progress from players including Marvin Harrison Jr., Garrett Williams, Darius Robinson, Walter Nolen and Will Johnson, along with contributions from several recent additions.

The piece is a commentary rather than a game report, but its significance is clear: Arizona’s season is being assessed not only by wins and losses, but by whether its roster-building plan shows evidence of producing cornerstone talent.