GLENDALE — ESPN NFL analyst Dan Orlovsky believes the Arizona Cardinals are serious contenders this season, speaking on Monday’s edition of the Pat McAfee Show.
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Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Darious Robinson (56) lines up during a preseason game on Aug. 10, 2024 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale. © Owen Ziliak/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK
During the show, Orlovsky mentioned that the Cardinals and the Seattle Seahawks should be mentioned more. While he praised the Seahawks for their complete offense, Orlovsky credited Arizona’s physicality as a strength.
“Arizona is going to be very difficult to play against,” he said. “… They’re going to play violent football.”
“I think two teams that haven’t been talked about enough are Arizona and Seattle..
I think the Seahawks are gonna be awesome and that offense looks fantastic with Klint Kubiak..
The Cardinals are gonna be really difficult to play against” ~ @danorlovsky7 #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/PU4demvhO6
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) August 18, 2025
Jul 24, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals linebacker Josh Sweat (10) during training camp at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Orlovsky mentioned how the Cardinals had to deal with injuries to defensive linemen, including Darious Robinson. With Robinson healthy this year, a newly signed Josh Sweat and Marvin Harrison Jr. looking for a breakout sophomore season, the Cardinals look to contend.
“I think Arizona is a player in [the NFC West] as well,” said Orlovsky.
Some online agree with Orlovsky, noting that the Cardinals could be a dark horse this season.
Been trying to tell you guys about Arizona looks like that train is gathering steam. https://t.co/XFR5LLjVIA
— Benjamin Allbright (@AllbrightNFL) August 18, 2025
It’s very possible that the NFC West rankings could be Sea 1, AZ 2, LAR 3 and SF 4. Do not overlook the birds of the NFC West. https://t.co/AoZlFLdXgJ
— Josh_Da_Hooman (@JoshDaHooman) August 18, 2025
Oct 13, 2024; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. (18) during warmups before the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
With a healthy team and growing national attention, Arizona could emerge as a legitimate threat in the NFC West.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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