Dec 8, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive end L.J. Collier (91) against the Seattle Seahawks at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
GLENDALE – The Arizona Cardinals were in desperate need for some reinforcements for the defensive line, and they get it in the form of L.J. Collier. The 30-year-old defensive lineman has been sidelined since Week 2 with an apparent knee injury that placed him on IR. Head coach Jonathan Gannon announced on Wednesday that Collier will have his 21-day practice window open and is ready to be activated when ready.
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It is unclear if Collier will have another time to return for Week 14 vs. the Los Angeles Rams, but his addition would lead to a massive improvement.
Cardinals defensive lineman L.J. Collier (91) sacks Chiefs quarterback Bailey Zappe (14) during a preseason game at State Farm Stadium on Aug. 9, 2025, in Glendale. Syndication: Arizona Republic
What Collier return means:
In 2024, Collier appeared in all 17 games and was a crucial part of the team’s run stop. He recorded 29 tackles, four tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks. The seven-year pro was only able to play 34 snaps in 2025, but in his two appearances, opponents averaged only 78 rushing yards per game. The 6’2, 300-pounder causes a havoc in the trenches that Arizona hasn’t been able to replicate in his absence.
Aug 17, 2024; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive lineman L.J. Collier (91) celebrates sacking Indianapolis Colts quarterback Sam Ehlinger during the first quarter at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-USA TODAY Sports
Outside of some stellar individual performances from defensive lineman like Calais Campbell and Josh Sweat, the Cardinals have been lacking major production from its D-line. His possible return this week could be huge against former Pro Bowl running back Kyren Williams in the backfield. Williams left last week’s game vs. the Carolina Panthers with an ankle injury, but if healthy, is one the most dangerous halfbacks in the game.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
