The Arizona Cardinals' victory over the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday was a bright spot in an otherwise dim season. Yet even with that upset win, the reality is that the Cardinals are far from playoff contention, and the front office might be looking to shake things up before the trade deadline. One name that's already generating buzz is Pro Bowl defensive end Josh Sweat, who, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, is reportedly open to a change of scenery.
Schultz notes that the belief around the league is that Sweat has been open to a trade since the offseason, but the Cardinals are in no rush to deal him unless they receive an offer that blows them away. Multiple teams have expressed interest, but Arizona's asking price is said to be steep. The franchise has given the impression they're content to keep Sweat if the right deal doesn't materialize.
Sweat arrived in Arizona in 2025 on a four-year, $76.4 million contract with $41 million guaranteed, following a seven-year stint with the Philadelphia Eagles. During his time in Philly, he racked up 43 sacks, 54 tackles for loss, and 97 quarterback hits, earning a Pro Bowl nod in 2021. His first season with the Cardinals was a personal best, as he recorded 12 sacks, but the defense still ranked in the bottom ten league-wide.
This year, the Cardinals' defense has been even worse, surrendering a league-worst 29.8 points per game. Through eight games, Sweat has managed just 3 sacks, four tackles for loss, and five quarterback hits—a dip that might reflect the unit's overall struggles rather than his individual ability.
The recent trade of Jeffery Simmons from the Tennessee Titans to the Chicago Bears has shifted the market for defensive stars. Simmons, who was dealt for a second-round pick, made an immediate impact in his Bears debut, and that has fans and analysts wondering if Sweat could command a similar return. The buzz on social media is palpable, with fans of contending teams already pleading with their general managers to make a move. One Chiefs fan wrote, "VEACH GET ON THAT PHONE!!!" while another declared, "Get ready to learn 49ers buddy."
Meanwhile, Cardinals fans are more cautious, urging the front office to hold out for a premium price. "Pay the price or keep walking!" one demanded. Another added, "I don’t believe they’ll move him before this week’s game unless it’s an overpay (2nd)."
For teams desperate for pass-rush help, Sweat's track record speaks for itself. He's been a consistent sack artist, and at 28, he's still in his prime. The Raiders' high asking price for Maxx Crosby suggests that elite edge rushers don't come cheap, and Sweat is likely to command a similar premium.
If the Cardinals do decide to move him, they'll be following a trend of rebuilding teams capitalizing on veteran assets. The Bears' acquisition of Simmons was a clear signal that contenders are willing to pay for difference-makers, and the NFC GM calling that trade a 'Super Bowl roster' move only adds to the pressure on other teams to act.
As the trade deadline approaches, the question remains: will Sweat be the next big name to switch jerseys? The Cardinals hold the cards, but with the right offer, they might just pull the trigger. For now, fans on both sides are watching closely, knowing that a single trade could shift the balance of power in the NFL.
