Cardinals Release Dalvin Tomlinson, Clearing Cap Space for Offseason Moves

The Arizona Cardinals have made a major roster adjustment by releasing veteran defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson, sources confirmed. The move saves the team $9.4 million in salary cap space, freeing up resources as the franchise prepares for the 2026 free agency period.

Tomlinson, 32, spent just one season with Arizona despite signing a two-year, $29 million deal last offseason. During his tenure, he appeared in all 17 games, tallying 26 combined tackles, 13 solo stops, and one sack. His release now allows him to explore opportunities with other NFL teams.

The decision is part of a broader strategy by Arizona to create financial flexibility. With additional recent cuts, the Cardinals have already freed approximately $20 million in cap space, positioning themselves to pursue key additions in free agency.

Arizona’s front office is also considering larger structural changes, including potential moves at quarterback, as the team looks to reshape its roster and prepare for the upcoming season. The legal tampering window opens March 9, with free agency beginning on March 11.

1. Tomlinson’s Career and Cardinals Tenure

Dalvin Tomlinson entered the NFL as a fourth-round draft pick and has developed into a durable and reliable defensive lineman over a nine-year career. Known for his versatility and run-stopping ability, he has contributed to multiple defensive schemes and teams. Arizona signed Tomlinson to a two-year, $29 million contract last offseason, envisioning him as a key component of their defensive front. He played all 17 games in 2025, but his statistical output included just 26 tackles and one sack, which fell short of expectations for a high-priced veteran. Despite the modest production, Tomlinson’s experience and professionalism remain attractive to other teams. Several franchises in need of a seasoned interior defensive lineman may pursue him as a free agent. For the Cardinals, moving on from Tomlinson reflects a calculated roster decision rather than a reflection on his work ethic. The move prioritizes flexibility and opportunity for younger players within the defensive rotation.

2. Arizona’s Offseason Roster Moves

Tomlinson’s release is one of several roster changes the Cardinals have made to manage cap space. Defensive lineman Bilal Nichols and linebacker Akeem Davis-Gaither were also released, and the team opted not to tender running back Emari Demercado, allowing him to enter free agency. These moves, combined with the potential release of quarterback Kyler Murray at the start of the new league year, are projected to give Arizona roughly $50 million in total cap space once free agency officially begins. The strategy signals that the Cardinals are preparing to aggressively target free agents and potentially rebuild portions of the roster. Creating room at key positions will allow flexibility in negotiating with high-priority targets, including impact players on both offense and defense. Arizona’s approach reflects a balance of financial prudence and strategic planning, aiming to address multiple roster needs while maintaining the ability to compete in the NFC West.

3. Looking Ahead to Free Agency

With the release of Tomlinson and other veterans, the Cardinals are positioned to be active participants in the 2026 free agency market. Teams can begin negotiating with free agents during the legal tampering window starting March 9. Arizona’s roster flexibility will allow them to pursue talent at multiple positions, including defensive front, skill positions, and most notably quarterback. Speculation suggests the team may seek a replacement for Kyler Murray to lead the offense in the coming seasons. The freed-up cap space and accumulation of draft picks could enable Arizona to pursue both established veterans and promising young players, balancing immediate competitiveness with long-term roster building. The offseason moves indicate a clear plan: the Cardinals aim to reshape their roster thoughtfully, positioning themselves for sustained success while remaining financially flexible in the ever-competitive NFC West.