GLENDALE – NFL Insider Ian Rapoport shuts down major trade news regarding Arizona Cardinals edge rusher Josh Sweat. As the 29-year-old skipped OTAs and was away from the facilities, many fans on social media spread rumors of the franchise trading away Sweat in a deal. After a 12-sack season in 2025, Sweat’s value and interest around the league deemed to be high. However, Rapoport put the hammer down and smashed that rumor to pieces on Wednesday.
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Cardinals Trey Benson (33) and Josh Sweat (10) warm up on the sidelines during a preseason game against the Raiders at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Aug. 23, 2025. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Rapoport shuts down rumors:
The Green Bay Packers were seen as the heavy favorite, wanting to pair an edge alongside Micah Parsons. That dream appears to be dead with Rapoport’s report of the Cardinals not considering trading the Pro Bowler. After a 3-14 season, reports came flying about Sweat not being happy in Arizona, which likely stems from the team’s lack of success. Regardless, the franchise has little reasons to trade away its only viable pass rusher.
Josh Sweat speaks to members of the media at the Arizona Cardinals Training Center in Tempe on March 13, 2025. © Diannie Chavez/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Sweat recorded 12 of the team’s 30 sacks last season, with second being Calais Campbell, whose not on the roster anymore. The defense needs a force in the trenches that can cause havoc for opposing quarterbacks. Surely, some of the young names will step up in that role, but with the production last year, its hard to have confidence on their growth.
Given the team’s offseason moves, competing in the NFC West next season isn’t a concern for Arizona. Signing veteran players in free agency to cheap, short-term deals is setting up 2026 to be a gap year. If the team has a similar record, then the Sweat trade noise could truly heat up, but for now, he looks to remain in the Valley.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
