The Arizona Cardinals head into the 2025 season likely ranking as the third-strongest team in the NFC West, trailing the more talent-rich San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams.
They’re placing their hopes on Kyler Murray, who turns 28 during the season, to make a significant jump. Murray is the healthiest he’s been since 2022 and managed to play a full season in 2024 — something he hadn’t done since 2020.
Second-year wideout Marvin Harrison Jr. is expected to take a step forward in his development, and the Cardinals’ defense should offer more support thanks to roster improvements made during the offseason.
However, Arizona still doesn’t appear ready to seriously contend for the NFC West crown. To make things tougher, the Rams might further strengthen their roster before training camp begins.
Bleacher Report floated a scenario where veteran receiver Amari Cooper, who played for the Buffalo Bills last season, signs with Los Angeles — forming a formidable trio alongside Davante Adams and Puka Nacua.
“At 31 and coming off a down season, Cooper isn’t expected to command a massive contract as a free agent,” Bleacher Report noted. “The Rams, consistently in the playoff mix, could be an attractive destination for the five-time Pro Bowler who may be looking for a Super Bowl shot late in his career. In L.A., Cooper would join a playoff-ready squad with a respected quarterback, and a receiving corps featuring Nacua, Adams, and Cooper could rank among the NFL’s best.”
If the Rams pull off this move, it would further strengthen one of Arizona’s toughest division rivals — making the Cardinals’ path to winning the NFC West, and returning to the playoffs, even more difficult.
While pairing Adams and Cooper with Nacua would create an aging receiving group on paper, it would still give Matthew Stafford a formidable trio of weapons.
With Kyler Murray — who could be poised for his best season since 2021 — leading the way, the Cardinals will try to surpass both the Rams and 49ers to claim the division title and earn their first playoff berth in four years.
Arizona seems poised to take a big step forward this season, but the question remains: will it be enough if the Rams make another major roster upgrade?
