Three Cardinals Named Cut/Trade Candidates

ARIZONA -- The Arizona Cardinals - like every other squad - are set to make some changes heading into the 2024 offseason.

After finishing 4-13 in Jonathan Gannon's first season as head coach, the Cardinals approach the coming months with optimism after an encouraging effort.

Now, all eyes are on second-year general manager Monti Ossenfort to continue on his impressive rookie campaign with some serious ammo at his disposal: Estimated $30 million in effective cap space for free agency with six picks in the first three rounds of the 2024 NFL Draft.

While there's plenty of talk about what outside help may arrive, the Cardinals are sure to part ways with familiar faces after going through their evaluations.

uStadium recently compiled a list of potential cut/trade candidates, and three Arizona players were listed:

"We compiled a list of players who could be potential trade/cut candidates based on their contracts (ability to get out without a major dead money hit), new staff, and/or performance," wrote Nick Spano.

"Clearly, all of the players listed won't be moved, but a good amount could see restructuring, trades or eventually let go."

Let's dive into their picks:

Three Cardinals Named Cut/Trade Candidates

1. James Conner (Saves $5.9M)

Given the volatility of the running back position, Conner will likely be spotted as a popular cut candidate across a few sites. He'll be 29 next season and is in the final year of his contract.

His $8.43 million cap hit for 2024 ranks seventh among running backs.

Had Conner's play not justified the spending, it'd be very reasonable to assume he could be on the move. Yet one could make an argument he was the team's offensive MVP in 2023, and especially given the lack of depth behind him, it's very tough to imagine Conner not in Arizona next season.

For what it's worth, it's been floated that Conner could hold out for a new deal. Whether that's true - we're not sure, but certainly something to monitor over the coming months.

2. D.J Humphries (saves $16M POST-JUNE 1)

Whereas Conner could be considered a reach as a candidate, it's perfectly reasonable - and perhaps expected - that the team moves on from Humphries.

Even prior to his season-ending knee injury late in the year, Humphries was considered a prime cut candidate. He's by no means played awful, though the youth movement occurring in Arizona was sure to catch up to him at some point.

His cap hit of $22.8 million is top five for left tackles in 2024, according to Spotrac.

Especially if the organization plans on moving Paris Johnson Jr. to the left side, keeping Humphries just wouldn't be justifiable.

Kyzir White (saves $4M)

If you've followed coverage on this site at any point during 2023, you'll know we're fairly high on White - who led the Cardinals in tackles despite heading to injured reserve after just 11 games with 90 tackles. two sacks, three passes defensed and one interception.

After Budda Baker and Jalen Thompson, White is firmly the third best player on Arizona's defense as it stands. Sure - White's $6.7 million cap hit isn't dirt cheap - but when healthy, it's tough to imagine the $4 million in cap savings utilized better elsewhere.

On top of being productive, White grew into a leader for the Cardinals. As the culture continues to be built in the desert, it doesn't make sense in any facet to part ways with him.