For a team coming off a three-win season, the Cardinals didn’t have an insane amount of money to spend. However, after releasing Kyler Murray and others, Arizona now ranks seventh in total cap space with $48 million available.
Making difficult decisions has been general manager Monti Ossenfort’s specialty, and it will pay huge dividends for the Cardinals if they are able to allocate that money to different parts of the roster correctly.
The Cardinals saved another $9.4 million on Friday by cutting one of their top interior defenders, whom they signed just a season ago.
Arizona cut defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson after signing him one year prior on a two-year, $29 million contract.
In his only season with Arizona, Tomlinson started all 17 games and finished with 26 tackles and one sack. His presence freed up other rushers such as Josh Sweat and Walter Nolen III to make plays on the defensive line.
MORE: Cardinals Meet With Under-The-Radar QB Prospect At Combine
MORE: Kyler Murray's Next-Team Odds Take Shift Towards AFC East Bottom Feeder
While Tomlinson provided a positive veteran presence in a relatively young unit, this move will only benefit the Cardinals in the long run.
As mentioned, with $48 million in available cap space, the Cardinals can explore a variety of positional markets and address important needs.
We have a stacked quarterback free agency class, headlined by guys like Aaron Rodgers and Malik Willis. There is also a strong trade market with guys like Tua Tagovailoa.
The Cardinals can also use this money on a running back or another pass rusher if they choose to go after one.
All we’re saying is that Arizona is in the position to spend, and it is because of the moves that Ossenfort has made before free agency. Expect a spending spree to ensue when free agency kicks off on Monday.