The Arizona Cardinals rarely get the opportunity to shine on a national stage. For over a decade, they have been doomed to live in unnoticed mediocrity. Most NFL fans would have little to say about the team other than, "They're not all that good."
Times are changing, though. The Cardinals have succeeded at every step this offseason, from free agency to the NFL Draft. They have built a truly competitive roster and look ready to make a playoff push for the first time in years.
The question is: Will this offseason masterclass finally earn the Cardinals a piece of the national spotlight?
Arizona Cardinals deserve multiple primetime games in 2025
That's right, multiple.
In recent years, the Cardinals have been shunned by the NFL's schedule makers. In 2023, they had zero primetime games. In 2024, they had just one ( a close win over the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday Night Football). Meanwhile, teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, San Francisco 49ers, and Dallas Cowboys are getting five or six primetime games each year.
The 2025 NFL schedule release is set for Wednesday, May 14th at 6pm MST. It will air on NFL Network. The release will include full schedules for every team, including primetime matchups.
After the offseason that the Arizona Cardinals just put together, they should get at least two primetime games.
Sure, the Cardinals are a small-market team. They don't command the attention that some other teams do simply by name recognition. But this is a team full of budding stars.
Kyler Murray has established himself as a talented and electric quarterback capable of turning any play into a highlight. Marvin Harrison Jr. was one of the most highly touted receiver prospects in recent years. Trey McBride has quickly become one of the best tight ends in the NFL.
On defense, this team is full of storylines and potential breakout stars. Budda Baker can fly to the football like no other safety in football. Walter Nolen and Will Johnson are two of the most talented rookies in the league.
Arizona does not have a long list of high-profile matchups in 2025. Their most intriguing opponents outside of the NFC West include the Houston Texans, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Dallas Cowboys.
If the Arizona Cardinals live up to their potential this season, they will be playing meaningful football in November and December. At the very least, some of those games should be put in primetime slots for the world to see.