GLENDALE – The Arizona Cardinals should seriously consider trading Josh Sweat before the NFL trade deadline. If multiple contenders call, general manager Monti Ossenfort can turn a disappointing investment into future draft capital. According to NFL reporter Evan Sidery, several teams have expressed interest in Sweat, with a Day 2 pick in the 2027 NFL Draft emerging as a potential asking-price benchmark. Although that return might not match Arizona’s original expectations, the Cards need to evaluate the deal through the lens of their long-term future.
Jun 9, 2026; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona 2025-2026 outside linebacker Sweat (10) during minicamp at Arizona Cardinals Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Should the Cardinals trade Josh Sweat?
Multiple contenders are calling the Cardinals about Josh Sweat ahead of the trade deadline.
Sweat recorded 12 sacks last season for Arizona, but there appears to be a real possibility he’s dealt soon.
A Day 2 pick in 2027 appears to be the value. https://t.co/CTmgfPYtPn
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) October 6, 2026
Sweat recorded 12 sacks last season, demonstrating the pass-rushing ability that made him an attractive addition. However, his production has not met expectations this season, raising questions about whether keeping him makes sense for a team struggling to establish itself as a contender. Arizona signed Sweat to a four-year, $76.4 million contract, a significant investment in a player expected to strengthen its defensive front. If the Cardinals aren’t positioned to compete this season, holding onto that investment without meaningful results could compound the problem.
Nov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Arizona linebacker Sweat (10) and safety Budda Baker (3) and linebacker Zaven Collins (25) celebrate a sack of Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) during the game between the Dallas Cowboys and Arizona at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Trading Sweat would not erase the original decision, but it could prevent the team from making the same mistake twice. A second-round pick would give Arizona another opportunity to acquire a young player on a rookie contract. That matters for a franchise that needs to improve across multiple positions rather than rely on expensive veterans to close the gap against stronger opponents.
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
There is also a psychological component for Cardinals fans. Watching another veteran leave can be frustrating, particularly when the team has struggled to build sustained success. But holding onto recognizable names simply to avoid criticism is not a rebuilding strategy. If a contender offers a Day 2 selection, Ossenfort should seriously consider accepting. Sweat’s previous production gives him value, but Arizona must recognize that its priorities have changed. The trade would not guarantee a turnaround. It would, however, give the Cards another asset to help build one.
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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
