The Cardinals have shown interest in Giants’ pass rusher Azeez Ojulari, but their search for defensive reinforcements goes beyond him. According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, Arizona has also approached the Titans regarding a potential trade for defensive end Arden Key.
Key, 28, is under contract until 2025 with a manageable $6.5 million salary for next season. While the Titans, currently 1-6, are in a selling position ahead of the trade deadline, they’re not compelled to move Key unless they receive a compelling offer. New York is reportedly asking a high price for Ojulari, which could strengthen Tennessee’s leverage in negotiations over Key. However, sources suggest the Giants are unlikely to secure more than a Day 3 draft pick for Ojulari.
Originally a third-round pick by the Raiders, Key found limited success in Oakland but became an effective edge rusher with the 49ers and Jaguars, totaling 11 sacks and 32 QB hits in the 2021-22 seasons. This earned him a three-year, $21 million contract with Tennessee in the 2023 offseason. He recorded six sacks and 12 quarterback hits in his first year in Nashville, and so far this season, he has three sacks and six QB hits in seven games. Pro Football Focus has rated his pass-rushing performance well, giving him a 70.3 grade.
The 4-4 Cardinals, unexpectedly leading the NFC West amid injuries to their defensive line, have actively sought pass-rush support, as confirmed by GM Monti Ossenfort.
Meanwhile, Lions head coach Dan Campbell hinted that Detroit may seek an EDGE player after losing Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport to season-ending injuries. Arden Key, who recorded two sacks and six tackles in a recent game against the Lions, has emerged as a possible option. The Lions have also shown interest in Browns’ Za’Darius Smith, and ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Dianna Russini report Detroit’s contact with Smith. Other names on Detroit’s radar include the Panthers’ Jadeveon Clowney and the Saints’ Chase Young.
