Descriptions:
Watch on YouTube
In this episode of Locked On Cardinals, Alex Clancy dives headfirst into one of the hottest topics facing the Arizona Cardinals: with a revamped coaching staff and a roster packed with question marks heading into 2026, what matters most—maintaining flexibility with cap space, or prioritizing roster cohesion?
Alex Clancy starts off by evaluating the impact of several potential cap casualties on the defensive side, including Akeem Davis-Gaither, Dalvin Tomlinson, Evan Brown, Zaven Collins, and Bilal Nichols. He challenges conventional wisdom, sparking a debate about whether keeping familiar faces and locker room stability is more valuable than freeing up cap dollars to pursue marquee talent, especially as the defense tries to bounce back from a disappointing season.
Throughout the episode, Alex Clancy breaks down the nuances of player value versus salary, discusses the importance of having trusted veterans like Dalvin Tomlinson—and when it might make sense to move on from others. He explores how positional battles, injuries, and new coaching philosophies will shape decisions on roster building, questioning if a “run-it-back” approach could pay off with improved health and development.
The conversation shifts to the practical benefits of cap space, highlighting how the Cardinals could potentially swell their cap room to $65 million through cuts and restructures, opening the door to veteran signings and increased flexibility. Alex Clancy weighs the freedom that cap space brings against the safety and comfort of cohesive units, laying out why he would personally retain Tomlinson while letting most others walk—though he emphasizes how early it still is, and how Kyler Murray’s situation will be the first domino to fall.
If you’re looking for smart, critical analysis of where the Cardinals go next, what roster construction means in the modern NFL, and how front office decisions will ripple through 2026 and beyond—this episode provides both context and perspective. Tune in for Alex Clancy’s signature blend of insight and passion about your team, every day. Let’s discuss.
The Best Daily Arizona Cardinals Podcast. Host Alex Clancy (@ClancysCorner) take an unbiased approach covering the biggest Cards stories.
Become a part of the Locked On Cardinals EveryDayer Club: https://lockedoncardinals.supercast.com/
Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…
🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOAZCardinals?sid=YouTube
Locked On NFL League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft & More
🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNFL
Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub
Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
TurboTax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.
FanDuel
Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals.
Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.
5-Hour ENERGY
Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It’s party time. Order Now at 5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon.
Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.
Zocdoc
Stop putting off your doctor’s appointments and get the care you need.
Go to http://Zocdoc.com/lockedonnfl to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)
