Cardinals’ LaFleur “not worried” about Sweat not practicing in mandatory minicamp

Jun 9, 2026; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals outside linebacker Josh Sweat (10) looks on during minicamp at Arizona Cardinals Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

GLENDALE – The beginning of mandatory minicamp doesn’t end the Arizona Cardinals’ offseason drama. Two players dominated the headlines for the franchise in edge Josh Sweat and QB Jacoby Brissett. Each were in jeopardy of being traded from the franchise for various reasons. However, when mandatory minicamp started on Tuesday and both were present, the tides seemed to be moving in the right direction.

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Those dreams lasted for only a couple of opening stretches before the two went to the sideline to watch the rest of practice. Brissett sitting out for a new deal makes sense, but why has Sweat been absent from the team this offseason and on Tuesday? Those concerns haven’t hit head coach Mike LaFleur, who spoke about he’s “not worried” about the Pro Bowler.

LaFleur on Sweat not taking part of minicamp:

LaFleur wants to keep the condition of his players close to his chest, but seems confident that if Sweat could be out on the field he would. The 29-year-old missing OTAs isn’t something new, as he responded to a fan on social media stating, “I do my own training every offseason.” Many veteran players have their regime and schedule that is better fit for them. OTAs are mostly for younger guys and doesn’t indicate a player’s unhappiness, much to the chagrin of social media noise.

Sweat missing the first day mandatory minicamp could be a warning sign of something bigger down the pipeline. But, the more likely option could be he’s nursing an ailing injury, whether soreness or tightness, that the Cardinals don’t want to mess around with their star player. Reporters at the practice noted a moment where Sweat and LaFleur shared a laugh on the field and seem to be in good spirits.

Arizona’s front office has no incentive to trade Sweat, despite the interest from opposing teams. He’ll most likely suit up for the team’s 2026 season opener vs. the Los Angeles Chargers on September 13th, unless a major change happens.

Jacoby Brissett makes his return to Cardinals mandatory minicamp

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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports