Cardinals Expecting Key Starters Healthy by Camp

The Arizona Cardinals expect two defensive starters to be "full tilt" by camp.

ARIZONA -- The Arizona Cardinals are expecting LB Kyzir White and DE L.J. Collier to be "full tilt" when the team begins their offseason programs, according to Jonathan Gannon.

"We'll be smart with how we integrate them and obviously not a ton of contact to start there," Gannon told reporters at the NFL Owner's Meetings in Orlando.

Collier and White - both of whom started for Arizona - had their seasons cut short due to a biceps injury. Collier exited the season after Week 1 while White played just 11 games before landing on injured reserve.

The Cardinals added major depth along the defensive line with names such as Justin Jones and Bilal Nichols, but bringing back Collier this offseason was a priority for the organization too. He re-signed on a one-year deal.

White, who led the team in tackles despite not finishing the season, was a major loss on all accounts according to Gannon.

"The versatility that he brings, you know, obviously the motor and the violence, the coverage ability to run, obviously a complete player, super smart," Gannon said (h/t AZCardinals.com).

"I'm not gonna lie, that hurt us. As a starter that was playing real well, that was done for the year, but other guys stepped in and maximize their opportunities. I really like what some other guys did in there, and we'll have more competition in that room this year. Kyzir is looking forward to going through spring. I know that."

Arizona also added LB Mack Wilson this offseason, who has versatility to play either inside next to White or as an edge rusher.