Joe Madden Foresees Big Challenges for the Arizona Cardinals in Upcoming NFL Season

Okay, hear’s a summary of the text you provided, focusing on the Arizona Cardinals‘ performance in a Madden 26 simulation:

Initial Success, then a Collapse: The Cardinals started strong, but their season went downhill after Week 8.
Poor Finish: They lost 8 out of their last 10 games, including their final six.
Close Losses: A meaningful number of their losses (six) were by a single score,suggesting the season could have gone differently with a bit of luck.
Limited Wins: Their only wins in the latter half of the season were against the Seattle Seahawks and the Jacksonville Jaguars.
* Playoff Miss: The Cardinals ultimately missed the playoffs.

The text is accompanied by images relating to the Madden 26 simulation of the Cardinals.

What specific adjustments to Gannon‘s playcalling could address weaknesses identified by Madden?

the Cardinals’ quarterback Situation: A Key Concern

Former NFL coach and current analyst Joe Madden has publicly expressed concerns about the Arizona cardinals’ prospects for the 2025 NFL season, with a significant focus on the quarterback position. Kyler Murray’s health and consistency remain central to the team’s success, but Madden believes even a fully healthy Murray faces an uphill battle.

injury History: Murray’s history of injuries, particularly knee and hamstring issues, is a major red flag. Maintaining his availability throughout the season is paramount, but Madden suggests the Cardinals need a solid contingency plan.

Offensive Line Protection: A consistent issue for the Cardinals, the offensive line’s ability to protect Murray is crucial. Madden highlighted the need for improved pass protection to allow Murray time to make reads and deliver accurate throws. The Cardinals invested heavily in the O-line during the draft, but growth time is a factor.

Backup Quarterback Depth: The performance of the backup quarterback, currently Drew Plitt, will be vital if Murray is sidelined. Madden emphasized the importance of having a reliable option who can step in and manage the game effectively.

Defensive Rebuild and its Impact

Madden also pointed to the Cardinals’ ongoing defensive rebuild as a significant challenge. While the team has added promising young talent through the draft, integrating these players and establishing a cohesive unit will take time.

New Defensive Scheme: The implementation of a new defensive scheme under Defensive Coordinator Nick Rallis presents a learning curve for the entire team. Madden believes it will take several weeks for the players to fully grasp the system and execute it effectively.

Pass Rush Concerns: Generating consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks is a key component of any successful defense. Madden questioned the Cardinals’ ability to consistently disrupt the passing game, citing a lack of proven pass rushers.

Secondary Development: The Cardinals’ secondary is largely comprised of young players. While they possess potential, Madden believes they are vulnerable to experienced quarterbacks and skilled receivers. Developing their coverage skills and tackling ability will be critical.

The NFC West: A Highly Competitive Division

The Cardinals compete in the NFC West, arguably the most competitive division in the NFL. Madden believes this adds another layer of difficulty to their already challenging situation.

San Francisco 49ers: The reigning NFC Champions remain the team to beat in the division. Their potent offense and dominant defense make them a formidable opponent.

Los Angeles Rams: With Matthew Stafford and Cooper Kupp leading the way, the Rams are a legitimate playoff contender. Madden expects them to be a tough matchup for the Cardinals.

Seattle seahawks: Geno Smith’s emergence as a capable quarterback has transformed the Seahawks into a competitive team. Madden believes they will be a difficult opponent for any team in the league.

Divisional Games: Madden stressed the importance of winning divisional games, as they are often the determining factor in playoff contention. The Cardinals’ schedule includes tough matchups against all three of their divisional rivals.

Coaching Staff Under Pressure

With high expectations and a challenging schedule, the Cardinals’ coaching staff, led by Jonathan Gannon, faces significant pressure to deliver results.

Gannon’s Playcalling: Madden will be closely watching Gannon’s playcalling,particularly on defense. His ability to adapt to different opponents and make timely adjustments will be crucial.

Offensive Coordinator Drew Petzing: Petzing’s ability to maximize Murray’s potential and develop a consistent offensive attack will be key to the Cardinals’ success.

Special Teams Performance: Madden emphasized the importance of solid special teams play, as it can frequently enough be the difference between winning and losing close games.

Cardinals’ Draft Strategy: Long-Term vs. Immediate Needs

The Cardinals’ recent draft strategy has focused on building for the future, but Madden questioned whether they adequately addressed their immediate needs.

Offensive Tackle selection: While the Cardinals drafted Paris Johnson Jr. in the first round, Madden believes they still need to improve their offensive tackle depth.

Defensive Line Additions: The Cardinals added several defensive linemen in the draft, but Madden questioned whether they have enough proven pass rushers to consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks.

**Wide Receiver Depth