TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) — The Arizona Cardinals’ defense has suffered another significant blow with the announcement that linebacker Dennis Gardeck will be sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a torn ACL, as confirmed by coach Jonathan Gannon on Tuesday.
Gardeck sustained the injury early in the second half of Arizona’s 17-15 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday night. This marks the third time Gardeck has faced an ACL injury, having previously injured it in 2020 and once during high school.
This setback adds to a troubling trend for the Cardinals, who have now experienced four season-ending injuries to key defensive players. Earlier, linebacker BJ Ojulari tore knee ligaments during the preseason, while defensive linemen Justin Jones (triceps) and Bilal Nichols (stinger) were also ruled out in recent weeks.
At 30 years old, Gardeck has participated in all seven games this season, leading the team with three sacks and six tackles for loss. In his seventh NFL season, Gardeck has steadily increased his playing time since going undrafted out of NCAA Division II Sioux Falls.
The Cardinals are optimistic about bolstering their defense in the coming weeks with the anticipated return of rookie Darius Robinson. The No. 27 overall pick has yet to play this season due to a calf injury, but his debut could provide a much-needed boost to a struggling defensive lineup.
