June 13, 2026, 11:31 a.m. MT
The Arizona Cardinals wrapped up their offseason program, and we can get an idea of what some of the position battles look like. According to AZCentral’s Theo Mackie, there is a mild surprise with the depth chart, at least right now.
Second-year linebacker Cody Simon appears to have the leg up in the competition for the starting inside linebacker job next to Mack Wilson.
The team released Akeem Davis-Gaither and then signed former New England Patriots linebacker Jack Gibbens to a two-year, $7.5 million contract. Gibbens was thought to probably be the likely starter with Wilson.
Per Mackie, Simon “appeared to have the inside track to that job” based on his usage in practices.
Simon started the final nine games of last season, filling in for Wilson at the “Mike” linebacker position after Wilson fractured two ribs and missed the rest of the season, but the Cardinals were 0-9 in those games, lost by three or more scores six times and allowed 37 or more points six times with Simon relaying defensive plays from defensive coordinator Nick Rallis.
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The real competition will heat up in training camp when pads go on.
It will be one of the position battles to watch as the season approaches.
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