Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon recently made headlines by acknowledging that the team’s roster is still a work in progress as the 2023 NFL season approaches. When asked about his confidence in the current lineup, Gannon was candid, stating, “The dust has not settled.” This statement indicates that more changes could be on the horizon as the Cardinals seek to finalize a competitive roster.
Gannon, who took over as the Cardinals’ head coach earlier this year after serving as the Philadelphia Eagles’ defensive coordinator, is navigating the early stages of rebuilding a franchise that has seen significant turnover. With a new coaching staff and various roster moves, the Cardinals are in a transitional phase, and Gannon’s comments suggest that the front office is still evaluating talent and making adjustments to get the best mix of players for the upcoming season.
One of the key factors in this uncertainty is the team’s quarterback situation. With star QB Kyler Murray recovering from a torn ACL, the Cardinals have been weighing their options under center. The competition among backup quarterbacks has been fierce, with players like Colt McCoy, Clayton Tune, and recently acquired Joshua Dobbs all vying for the starting spot in Murray’s absence. Gannon’s remarks imply that the coaching staff is still in the process of deciding who will lead the team in Week 1 and beyond.
Additionally, the Cardinals’ defense, an area Gannon specialized in during his time with the Eagles, remains a focus of improvement. Arizona has made several moves to address defensive needs, but the overall depth and talent on that side of the ball are still being assessed. Gannon’s experience in building strong defenses will be crucial as the team continues to tweak its roster.
Beyond the quarterback and defensive questions, the Cardinals are also dealing with changes in their wide receiver corps and offensive line, making Gannon’s job even more complex. He has emphasized the importance of versatility and competition during training camp, and his statement about the roster’s unsettled state indicates that players are still fighting for their roles.
As the preseason wraps up and the regular season looms, Cardinals fans will be watching closely to see what moves the team makes. Gannon’s candid admission that “the dust has not settled” serves as a reminder that the roster remains fluid, and the final product may look different by the time the season kicks off. In a highly competitive NFC West division, the Cardinals will need to make the right decisions to set the foundation for future success.