Arizona Cardinals safety Jalen Thompson understands that his defensive coordinator Nick Rallis means business in 2025. The Cardinals ranked an embarrassing No. 28 in opponent third down conversion percentage last year playing in a NFC West division that offered only one playoff team. For Thompson, motivation to change both the outcome and narrative for his Cardinals in 2025 is imperative.
Jul 29, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals safety Jalen Thompson (34) with safety Budda Baker (3) during training camp at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Thompson was responsible for 91 total tackles in what ultimately was a tumultuous season for Rallis and the Cardinals’ defense. Cardinals opponents totaled 1045 offensive plays at a clip of around 61 plays per game. For clarity, that’s an awful large volume of plays to ask your defense to stop opponents, especially in the NFL.
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Even with these fatigue yielding statistics, Thompson and company allowed opponents just an average of 22.3 points per game. Additionally, Thompson pounced for two fumble recoveries, three pass deflections, and four stuffs showing his versatility and dedication. Behind the leadership of all-pro safety Budda Baker, Thompson will be ready to elevate his game and add to the collective effort of making the Cardinals’ defense respectful this year. The teams first test will be on Sept 7. When the Cardinals visit the New Orleans Saints in Week 1.
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This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: Cardinals’ Jalen Thompson understands his calling in the collective