As the Arizona Cardinals prepare for their 2025 training camp, the excitement isn’t solely focused on standout rookies or a high-powered offense. In the background, a few under-the-radar contributors from last season could be on the move to new teams.
While the Cardinals have drawn attention for their offseason defensive additions and the ongoing progress of Kyler Murray and his offensive arsenal, the roster is still in flux. Spotting under-the-radar trade candidates is essential as the team works to juggle talent, salary cap considerations, and depth across positions. Here are two players who might be dealt before training camp kicks into full gear.
Cardinals’ 2025 Offseason Review
A short-lived four-game winning streak briefly brought the Cardinals into the spotlight during the 2024 NFL season. Still, the team largely struggled to establish a clear identity. Outside of Kyler Murray’s dynamic performances at quarterback, Arizona had little else to lean on.
That narrative could shift in 2025. General manager Monti Ossenfort took an aggressive approach to bolstering the defensive front, adding edge rusher Josh Sweat and linebacker Baron Browning in free agency, then drafting defensive linemen Walter Nolen and Jordan Burch. With these additions, head coach Jonathan Gannon—who orchestrated Philadelphia’s formidable 2022 Super Bowl defense—now has the personnel to build a similarly imposing unit in Arizona.
In 2024, the Cardinals’ defense ranked a modest 21st in the league. But a defensive resurgence this season could be the key to positioning Arizona as legitimate NFC West contenders.
That potential rise complements the offensive firepower led by Kyler Murray, tight end Trey McBride, and standout rookie receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. Could the team have invested in more offensive weapons for Murray? Possibly—but focusing on strengthening the defense was a smart move toward creating a more balanced and competitive roster.
Here, we’ll take a closer look at two under-the-radar players who could emerge as sneaky trade candidates for the Arizona Cardinals as they head into the 2025 NFL training camp.
WR Greg Dortch
Greg Dortch brings value as a versatile slot receiver and return specialist, contributing in multiple phases of the game. However, the Cardinals’ wide receiver group is getting crowded, with rising stars like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson solidifying themselves as key starters. As those younger options take on larger roles, Dortch’s opportunities on offense could shrink heading into 2025.
While Greg Dortch is currently listed as the Cardinals’ primary punt returner, he’s facing growing competition from players like DeeJay Dallas—further putting his role in question. His versatility and value on special teams certainly keep him in the mix, but with a deep receiver room and looming roster decisions, Arizona may ultimately view Dortch as expendable.
Trading Dortch could serve the Cardinals well by securing a late-round draft pick or future asset, while also giving a receiver-needy team a proven slot option and return specialist. His experience and steady special teams production make him an appealing target—especially for playoff contenders looking to add depth without stretching their cap.
DL Justin Jones
Justin Jones is a dependable veteran defensive tackle who played a solid role in the Cardinals’ rotation last season. However, with the arrival of promising young linemen like Walter Nolen and Jordan Burch, and the presence of established starter Dalvin Tomlinson, Jones could find himself sliding down the depth chart in 2025. As his snaps and on-field impact potentially diminish, his role becomes more uncertain.
Despite that, Jones still holds value thanks to his versatility and ability to contribute on passing downs. His experience and steady production make him a reliable option for teams looking to reinforce their interior defensive line. Given Arizona’s emphasis on youth development and cap flexibility, trading Jones could be a smart move. His manageable contract only enhances his appeal to teams in need of a plug-and-play veteran with both starting experience and pass-rushing upside.
Trading Justin Jones could help the Cardinals preserve salary cap flexibility while offering Jones an opportunity to compete for a bigger role with another team. For a contender aiming to strengthen their defensive front with a versatile, experienced tackle, Jones would be a smart and valuable addition.
Roster Taking Shape
As the Cardinals gear up for their 2025 training camp, the roster is coming together but still carries some uncertainty. While attention is rightly centered on the defensive enhancements and the ongoing development of Murray’s offensive weapons, sharp front offices understand that trades involving players like Greg Dortch and Justin Jones could yield valuable assets and add much-needed roster flexibility.
Dortch’s versatility as a slot receiver and return specialist, paired with the Cardinals’ deep and crowded wide receiver group, positions him as a likely trade candidate. At the same time, Jones’ reliable interior defensive skills, combined with his backup role amid a youth-driven roster shift, make him another potential trade option that could benefit both the player and Arizona.
With the NFC West growing more competitive, the Cardinals need to strike a balance between addressing immediate needs and planning for the future. These under-the-radar trade candidates could play a crucial role in that strategy, quietly reshaping the roster as training camp draws near.
