The 2026 league year is coming next month. It officially begins on March 11, with the legal negotiating period beginning on March 9.

The Arizona Cardinals have many roster decisions to make before then.

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Leading up to the new league year, we will profile every player on the roster, go over what they did last season, what their contract status is and what they face in 2026.

Next up is running back Emari Demercado.

Emari Demercado 2025 season

Demercado had one of the season’s most memorable moment, for all the wrong reasons. It was the 71-yard run that was originally a 72-yard touchdown, only it was ruled that he dropped the ball before crossing the goalline.

It was a mix of good and bad for Demercado.

He played in 13 games and had a career-high in total yards and rushing yards. He rushed for 312 yards on 7.1 yards per attempt. He also caught 13 passes for 101 yards and a touchdown.

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But he dropped a sure walk-in touchdown in Week 4 and fumbled away a touchdown in Week 5, leading to two losses. The fumble turned the season into a mess, whether it is fair or not to put that on him.

Emari Demercado contract status

Having played three seasons after signing as a rookie free agent, Demercado is scheduled to be a restricted free agent, which means the Cardinals can tender him and be able to match any offer he receives. It is uncertain whether the Cardinals will tender him.

Emari Demercado offseason outlook

Demercado has proven to be a valuable role player on special teams and as a reserve running back. He blocks well. He can catch the ball, and he can make explosive big plays.

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However, he does not have any connection to the new offensive staff, so he might not be tendered or re-signed. He likely will land a one or two-year deal for a little more than the league minimum with some team this offseason.

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This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: Emari Demercado’s contract status and 2026 offseason outlook