GLENDALE – When BJ Ojulari jogged back onto the practice field on Thursday, it wasn’t just another injury update; it was a statement of intent. For a Cardinals defense that has been struggling, especially when pressuring the quarterback, Ojulari’s return could be the catalyst that changes everything.
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Arizona linebacker Ojulari (18) sacks Atlanta Falcons quarterback Taylor Heinicke (4) in the second half at State Farm Stadium on Nov. 12, 2023, in Glendale. © Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK
Back in August of 2024, Ojulari had a knee injury that sidelined him the entire season, and his first appearance back with the team on the practice field since then was a great sight to see for the Cardinals. Arizona has leaned heavily on scheme creativity to manufacture pressure, but is still struggling to convert those chances into sacks, and that’s where Ojulari comes in. His first-step explosiveness and hand timing make him a true edge disruptor and the kind of talent their system needs to function at its peak. In 2023, Ojulari had 23 solo tackles, 40 total tackles, along with four sacks in 17 games played.
Dec 17, 2023; Glendale, Ariz, United States; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) throws a pass while pressured by Arizona linebacker Ojulari (18) during the third quarter at State Farm Stadium. © Michael Chow/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK
For Cardinals fans, this brings a glimmer of hope. The kind that builds around a young core instead of a patchwork of stopgaps. Ojulari’s return also restores balance to a defensive line that has been overextended and will allow Josh Sweat and Calais Campbell to play more situational roles. Their defense can’t be just about new veterans and patience with their young draft picks; it’s about timing.
BJ Ojulari returns to #AZCardinals prax: https://t.co/yMzQazQOB1 pic.twitter.com/CxHgOZpFYl
— Paul Calvisi (@PaulCalvisi) October 30, 2025
Arizona linebacker Ojulari (18) reacts after sacking Atlanta Falcons quarterback Taylor Heinicke (4) in the second half at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Nov. 12, 2023. © Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK
If Ojulari’s health holds, the Cardinals may finally unleash the pass rush Gannon envisioned. Arizona wants to be fast, fearless, and disruptive, and that could change not only the defense’s trajectory but also the Cardinals’ season.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
