GLENDALE – With two players released earlier this week, the Arizona Cardinals were just getting started. PHNX Cardinals insider Bo Brack reported that Arizona have released defensive lineman Dalvin Tomlinson on Friday. The move comes after only one season into the 32 years old’s two-year, $29 million he inked out last offseason. A heavy salary and lack of production made the decision easy for general manager Monti Ossenfort.
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Aug 2, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive lineman Dalvin Tomlinson (94) during the Red and White practice in training camp at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Ossenfort cuts Tomlinson ahead of 2026 free agency:
Entering his ninth season, Tomlinson was brought in to improve the franchise’s run defense, which was 20th in 2024. However, it was quickly realized that the former 2nd-round pick wouldn’t be able to save this sinking ship. The Cardinals finished last season 25th in rushing yards allowed, surrendering 126.9 per game.
Tomlinson appeared and started in all 17 games and ended the year with 26 tackles and three tackles for loss. His Pro Football Focus grade was a 43.2, placing him 120th out of 134 eligible interior defensive lineman. This marks the second time Tomlinson had his contract terminated, with the first instance happening as a member of the Cleveland Browns a year prior.
Dec 28, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson (94) reacts after a play during the first half against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
Ossenfort already released Akeem Davis-Gaither and Bilal Nichols early in the week. Friday’s move will give Arizona around $24-25 million more in cap space, which will be needed after eating the dead cap with the release of Kyler Murray. The extra cap space is expected to be used to find the franchise’s next QB. Ossenfort’s connection to Malik Willis seems to answer that question, but the next one will be the final number salary-wise in the contract.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
