Arizona Cardinals Podcasts

The Cardinals sent shockwaves through the NFL on Monday when they agreed to terms of a two-year deal with star defensive lineman J.J. Watt. Craig Grialou, Mike Jurecki and Bertrand Berry talk about the impact of Watt’s arrival including how he fits into Vance Joseph’s scheme, the instant boost in leadership Watt provides and what his presence means to other players scheduled to hit unrestricted free agency on March 17.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who saw this coming? Not Darren Urban, Kyle Odegard and Paul Calvisi, who were as blown away by the addition of J.J. Watt to the defense as anyone. So much so, here’s a special all-Watt, all-the-time podcast. The guys talk about the energy and leadership Watt will bring to the field and the locker room, the trickle down impact it may have on contracts and on drawing other free agents, what Watt has left, if Haason Reddick could still return, Watt’s teaming with Chandler Jones and Jones’ future, Watt’s potential jersey number, the remaining cornerback questions on defense, Watt’s draw for prime time games or Hard Knocks, and what – if anything – this could mean for Larry Fitzgerald’s decision for 2021.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 398 - No one saw this coming. No one. Just an absolute stunner. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki react to the team agreeing to terms with J.J. Watt, one of the better defensive players in the league. It certainly has the chance to be a game-changer. Just think, Watt on one side and Chandler Jones on the other rushing opposing quarterbacks. The guys also wonder about the trickle-down effect, like how Watt being on board factors in the upcoming decisions of say a Larry Fitzgerald, Patrick Peterson and Haason Reddick.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 496 - With free agency and the draft on the horizon, the Cardinals must answer several questions on the offensive line. Darren Urban joins Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley to talk about the center position, Josh Jones' versatility and a few potential options to join the o-line via free agency. Plus, do the Cardinals need to add size at running back? We also discuss how the Cardinals offense can counter when defenses take Kyler Murray out of the run game.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 397 - Teams are always looking to improve, and offensive line coach/run game coordinator Sean Kugler made it clear on Thursday that the Cardinals need to improve the production they received at the center position. But how? Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki offer some suggestions plus discuss the future of the entire right side of the line given that Week 1 starters J.R. Sweezy and Kelvin Beachum are both due to become unrestricted free agents. Also, what did Kugler have to say about his recent promotion?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the first time since he started going in 2001 that Darren Urban isn’t in Indianapolis for the Scouting combine, so with both he and Kyle Odegard protocoled out of that trip, they join Paul Calvisi on a cornucopia of topics. That includes Andy Isabella’s at-home powerlifting; the possibility of playing tag with Haason Reddick; Kenyan Drake and the uncertainty of most free agents right now; the likelihood of one-year contracts in a year of a cap crunch; and Fitz as player, retiree and/or recruiter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With an expected decrease in the salary cap and the final number still unknown, NFL teams are facing a cloud of uncertainty as they push toward the 2021 league year. Craig Grialou, Mike Jurecki and Bertrand Berry explain what free agency might look like when it kicks off in March. Plus, the guys break down pass rush options, where Kyler Murray can improve and the future of the Cardinals offensive line.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 396 - The free-agent market is starting to see some new names added to the field and yes, the biggest might be former Houston Texan J.J. Watt. Do the Cardinals have interest? It certainly can’t hurt to pick up the phone to find out. He plays a position where the team might have a need. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki talk Watt as part of a larger discussion about the defensive line. Also, the topic of penalties is addressed following the recent comments made by owner Michael Bidwill and general manager Steve Keim.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 495 - Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill spoke on a number of subjects while making an appearance on 98.7 FM, Arizona Sports Station's Newsmakers Week. Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley are joined by Kyle Odegard to talk about Bidwill's comments on the 2021 salary cap, expectations for Steve Keim and Kliff Kingsbury, Kyler Murray's development, free agency, the future of Larry Fitzgerald and Patrick Peterson and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 395 - As well as DeAndre Hopkins played last season, just think how much better he might have been if he had consistent help from another receiver to take attract some attention. The question Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki ask is if that receiver—Christian Kirk, Andy Isabella and KeeSean Johnson—is currently on the roster or might the team look at free agency and the draft to fill what is an important need. Plus, the guys discuss what owner Michael Bidwill had to say about the 2021 salary cap.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No, no breaking news yet, whether it’s any free agent interest or Fitz’s decision. The guys do talk a bunch about the latter, but Paul Calvisi, Darren Urban and Kyle Odegard also get into the potential impact of new WR coach Shawn Jefferson on Andy Isabella, Kenyan Drake’s desire for fans to come back (and a debate whether it matters on the scoreboard), LeBron in the NFL, Johnny Manziel not in the NFL, what the Cards could do in the draft’s first round and even D-Hop’s IG recruiting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 394 - When discussing the cornerback position, the first thing that needs to be addressed is Patrick Peterson. Will he be re-signed or will he continue his career elsewhere? That question will likely be answered sooner rather than later when the new league year begins. The secondary as a whole, including what to expect next from Budda Baker, is on the minds of Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki. Also, the guys ask if Kyler Murray was a top-10 quarterback in 2020.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Cardinals have their share of star players including Kyler Murray, DeAndre Hopkins, Budda Baker and Chandler Jones. But which areas of the team need the most attention during the offseason in order for the Big Red to take the next step? Craig Grialou, Mike Jurecki and Bertrand Berry talk about priorities and roster building. Plus, what will the Cardinals' running back room look like in 2021? Is Chase Edmonds ready to carry the load? The guys take a look at options in the ground game.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 494 - In the NFL, change is a given. Roster composition can look very different from one season to another. With that in mind, how will the Cardinals' front seven look in 2021? Former Cardinals linebacker Rob Fredrickson joins Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley to talk about the future of Vance Joseph's defense, the potential role for 2020 top pick Isaiah Simmons and the pass rush options outside of Chandler Jones. Plus, the crew discusses the offensive side of the ball and how Kyler Murray can be most effective in a balanced attack.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 393 – Running back Kenyan Drake is scheduled to hit unrestricted free agency when the new league year begins in March. Will Drake return to Arizona to team with Chase Edmonds in the backfield? Or will the Cardinals look to add to the position through free agency or the draft? These are just some of the questions Craig Grialou and an apparently “old” Mike Jurecki address as they begin their annual position-by-position evaluation heading into the 2021 offseason. Also, just how much influence will offensive line coach Sean Kugler have given his added title of run game coordinator?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s typical to have a lot of takeaways from the Super Bowl (and how they might relate to the Cardinals), so Paul Calvisi, Darren Urban and Kyle Odegard do that, although the end of the season means free agency – and a decision for both Patrick Peterson and the team about Patrick Peterson. The guys talk about the “dirty rumor” Peterson addresses, the potential of drafting a cornerback, how Peterson’s free agency could play out, how the defense could change, as well as revisit Bruce Arians’ retirement and tell a couple stories about our friend Pedro Gomez, who passed away suddenly on Super Bowl Sunday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will Larry Fitzgerald continue his playing career? That question has become an annual tradition. While we wait for a decision, Craig Grialou, Mike Jurecki and Bertrand Berry discuss the factors Fitz may be considering when planning his future. Plus, we review Super Bowl LV and share memories of ESPN's Pedro Gomez and NFL coaching legend Marty Schottenheimer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 392 - Welcome to the offseason. There are no more games to be played, so it’s time to focus on 2021. How many of the Cardinals’ current free agents are likely to return? Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki look at the 32 players, 28 who will reach unrestricted status come March 17. Before that discussion, however, the guys give a tip of the cap to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers—including all those former Cardinals coaches and players—for their dominating performance in Super Bowl LV.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 493 - Former Cardinals safety Antoine Bethea joins Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley to talk about the 2020 season, Budda Baker's ascension to top-safety status, Haason Reddick's breakout season and how the Big Red can develop consistency in 2021. Plus, Bethea previews Super Bowl LV and speaks on the factors that Larry Fitzgerald may be considering when mulling retirement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 391 - Larry Fitzgerald addressed his future this week and to nobody's surprise, he did not provide an answer. However, we are getting closer to knowing whether or not Fitzgerald will play an 18th season. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki discuss why the team needs clarity on Fitz's situation perhaps sooner rather than later. Also, the guys break down Kyler Murray's recent comments and offer a Super Bowl LV preview from a Cardinals perspective.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What might be the celebratory meal for our trio if they were to win a Super Bowl? Such is the question for Paul Calvisi, Darren Urban and Kyle Odegard, but for that to happen for the Cardinals, the team would have to get through the dog-eat-dog world of the NFC West, which has a new quarterback in L.A. and perhaps another team seeking an upgrade. The Cards’ own QB, Kyler Murray, might still think about baseball once in a while but he continues to impress on the football field, and to help, maybe the Cards might draft a wide receiver in the first round.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fresh off his virtual Pro Bowl MVP award, Kyler Murray went through a media "car wash" to talk about a number of subjects. Craig Grialou, Mike Jurecki and Bertrand Berry discuss Murray's comments and how Kyler and the Cardinals can improve on an up-and-down 2020. Plus, the guys address the future of the quarterback position in the NFC West and provide a preview of Super Bowl LV featuring the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Kansas City Chiefs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 390 - Things just got a lot more interesting in the NFC West. According to reports, the Rams will be moving on from Jared Goff. They are expected to acquire Lions QB Matthew Stafford as part of a trade involving a swap of former No. 1 overall draft picks. What does this mean for the Cardinals? Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki give their thoughts. Plus, the guys recap Kyler Murray’s virtual MVP performance in the Pro Bowl and discuss what college players stood out in the Senior Bowl.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 492 - Rookie of the Year in 2019. Pro Bowl in 2020. What will it take for Kyler Murray to improve on the impressive start to his NFL career? Former Cardinals linebacker Sam Acho joins Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley to talk about how K1 can take his game to the next level in 2021. Plus, Acho weighs in on the Super Bowl matchup between the Buccaneers and Chiefs. How will Acho's former defensive coordinator Todd Bowles try to slow Patrick Mahomes and the potent Kansas City offense?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Super Bowl is set, with Bruce Arians part of the Bucs-Chiefs equation, so there are B.A. memories on tap for Paul Calvisi and Darren Urban while Kyle Odegard takes the week off. The duo talk the NFC Championship game, how the final four underscore how much of a passing league the NFL really is, the promotion of Sean Kugler and Cam Turner along with the addition of Shawn Jefferson to the coaching staff, and the crazy talk of high-profile quarterbacks potentially being on the move this offseason (which is expected to be virtual again.)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Monday, the Cardinals promoted Sean Kugler to offensive line coach/run game coordinator and Cam Turner to quarterbacks coach. In addition, the team hired Shawn Jefferson to be the new wide receivers coach. Craig Grialou, Mike Jurecki and Bertrand Berry discuss the moves and how they can help the offense improve in 2021. Plus, the guys look at the future of Patrick Peterson and break down last weekend's conference championship games.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 389 - A recent Instagram post by Kyler Murray shed some light on how the Cardinals starting quarterback intends to spend the offseason. It’s looking to be a volatile offseason when it comes to quarterback movement in NFL. Just none of it involving Murray. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki explain how fortunate the Cardinals are to have found their franchise quarterback, who will be featured prominently in the upcoming virtual Pro Bowl. Plus, the guys discuss the results from Championship Sunday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 491 - With 28 unrestricted free agents set to hit the market, the Cardinals have a bunch of business to take care of this offseason. Former Cardinals safety Rashad Johnson joins Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley to talk about the future of Patrick Peterson. Will it be in Arizona? Johnson also shares his thoughts on Budda Baker's All-Pro season, the upcoming conference championships and more. Plus, a discussion about the recent flurry of coaching and front office moves made in the NFL.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 388 - The Academy has spoken. Actually, it was a 27-member panel that voted for AZCardinals.com’s annual end-of-season awards. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki are joined by Kyle Odegard to discuss the winners in six different categories. And when it came to Offensive Player of the Year, there was some spirited debate between Jurecki and Odegard. Also, stay tuned following the announcement of the final award as Grialou and Jurecki preview Championship Sunday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s a quarterback-driven league, and that’s easy to see with four top QBs in the NFL championship games, and a fifth suddenly with questions about the future in Houston. Makes sense that Paul Calvisi, Darren Urban and Kyle Odegard would use that has a jumping off point to the Cardinals’ own man behind center. The trio talk about Kyler Murray’s expectations in Year 3, his ability to push the Cardinals to a playoff contender next season, how teams defended K1, the way wide receiver might impact him, and how much say he might have/get in the Cardinals’ plans. Oh, and there is also free-agency discussion, the need for Haason Reddick, and Fitz’s smart real estate moves.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Each NFL season, it's a given that personnel and roles will change. With that as the backdrop, Craig Grialou, Mike Jurecki and Bertrand Berry discuss which young players could end up playing a big part in the success of the 2021 Cardinals. Plus, a preview of the conference championships. Who will advance to Super Bowl LV?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 387 - Year one with the Cardinals could not have gone any better for DeAndre Hopkins, and here’s hoping it is a sign of things to come as he works with Kyler Murray to further their on-field chemistry. Hopkins made several highlight-reel catches, many of which landed on the offensive edition of the team’s Top Plays of 2020. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki are joined by Kyle Odegard to count down the best five plays. Also, Grialou and Jurecki look back at what happened during the divisional round of the playoffs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 490 - In order for the Cardinals to take the next step in 2021, they need to see growth from their young players. Play-by-play voice Dave Pasch joins Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley to talk about which players will take their game to the next level. Plus, the guys break down the NFL playoffs. Who will advance to the conference championships?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 386 - A second season with Vance Joseph as defensive coordinator paid dividends. That unit performed better than expected. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki are joined by Kyle Odegard to count down the top-five plays on that side of the ball. Also, the best special teams plays are discussed. Plus, the postseason moves into its second weekend. Grialou and Jurecki break down each of the four divisional round matchups.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Virtual slime might help a TV broadcast – thanks, Nickelodeon! – but probably not impact where the Cardinals stand in the NFC West or what they need to fix. Paul Calvisi, Darren Urban and Kyle Odegard take a look at the playoffs and what NFC West rivals the Rams and Seahawks looked like, and how that reflects and challenges the Cardinals. As for the on-vacation Cards, a brief look at what ails them, along with positions of need. That could include wide receiver, where Andy Isabella is still trying to find his way and Larry Fitzgerald has a bunch of pros and cons to weigh before deciding on retirement or an 18th season. Oh, and what could happen at running back, too.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Cardinals have 28 players scheduled to become free agents during the offseason, many on the defensive side of the ball. Craig Grialou, Mike Jurecki and Bertrand Berry discuss the decisions to be made at outside linebacker and defensive back. Will big names like Haason Reddick, Patrick Peterson and Markus Golden return to the defense? Plus, a look at the 2020 All-Pro team and a preview of the divisional playoff round.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 385 - With the regular season complete, players are beginning to receive recognition for their efforts. Budda Baker and DeAndre Hopkins were both named to the 2020 All-Pro Team. Meanwhile, Haason Reddick was overlooked for NFC Defensive Player of the Month for December. He certainly deserved better according to Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki. Also, the guys discuss the results from a fun Super Wild Card Weekend.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 489 - With an expected drop in the salary cap and 28 players scheduled to hit unrestricted free agency, the Cardinals should have a very busy offseason. Darren Urban joins Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley to discuss different scenarios and possibilities for the future. Plus, a recap of the 2020 season and what needs to happen for the Cardinals to find success in 2021.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 384 - Just one game separated the Cardinals from the postseason. One game. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki debate which game was the most frustrating to them. So without a Cardinals game to preview, the guys go over the six games as part of Super Wild Card Weekend. Plus, a discussion about the players signed to future contracts this week and a former Cardinal announces his retirement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Paul Calvisi, Darren Urban and Kyle Odegard only traffic in the latest info – and that’s all about the Cardinals’ disappointing end to the season and the offseason ahead. So the trio discuss the emotions of the finish, the backup quarterback situation, Kyler Murray’s health, the stunning offensive dropoff, the need to add a wide receiver, the Cards’ place in the NFC West, the biggest defensive need, Isaiah Simmons, P2’s future, fan frustration and the huge accomplishment of head athletic trainer Tom Reed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After the Cardinals dropped the season finale against the Los Angeles Rams, the only thing they can do is look forward to the 2021 season. Craig Grialou, Mike Jurecki and Bertrand Berry give their thoughts on the 2020 campaign, priorities for the offseason, the future of Kyler Murray and DeAndre Hopkins and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 383 - Yes, eight wins showed improvement from the year prior, but one more win was needed to extend the 2020 season. The Cardinals stood on the doorstep of the playoffs only to have the door slammed shut. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki try to make sense of what happened in Los Angeles, and really, the past two weeks. A very long offseason now begins with more questions than answers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 382 - One game. Four quarters. Sixty minutes. The 2020 season will be defined not by the previous 15 games, but by the game that will be played this Sunday in Los Angeles. Win, and the Cardinals advance to the playoffs. Lose, and it’s going to be a very long offseason. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki break down the matchup including Jurecki’s three keys for a victory plus the ‘X’ factor in the matchup against the Rams.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 488 - Defensive lineman Domata Peko joined Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley to talk about the Cardinals quest for a playoff spot, the need to stop the Rams run game and preparing for a relatively unknown QB named John Wolford. Plus, learn about Peko's journey from childhood in American Samoa to a 15-year NFL career.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 381 - We know the history: the Cardinals have not beaten the Rams under head coach Sean McVay. Obviously, some new history needs to be made this week. But how? Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki discuss what Kyler Murray and company must do against a very good Rams defense. And, oh yeah, Murray is fine. He said as much after practicing on Wednesday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s very simple for the Cardinals, a grading scale of in or out – beat the Rams, it’s the playoffs. Lose, and you are done. Not a bad topic for Paul Calvisi, Darren Urban and Kyle Odegard, who discuss playoff scenarios, the hard-to-explain loss to the 49ers, the mystery of the up-and-down offense, the Rams losing QB Jared Goff, backup QBs and the Chris Streveler’s potential legendary role, Kyler Murray’s health, new Rams QB John Wolford, the stingy Rams defense and parallels to the 2008 Super Bowl team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 380 - With a nod to Bill Belichick, the Cardinals turn the page to Week 17 and a win-or-go-home game at the Los Angeles Rams. But before the chapter is completely closed on the previous week, Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki wanted to single out two players—DeAndre Hopkins and Haason Reddick—who hit significant milestones this past Saturday. Also, the guys look at the complete NFC playoff picture.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 2020 regular season comes down to a Week 17 matchup against division rival Los Angeles with a playoff spot on the line. If the Cardinals beat the Rams in L.A., they will clinch their first postseason trip since 2015. A loss ends their season. Craig Grialou, Mike Jurecki and Bertrand Berry talk about the Cardinals opportunity to make people forget about their poor showing against the 49ers. Will Kyler Murray be ready after suffering a lower leg injury on Saturday? Will the defense be able to stop Rams QB John Wolford? Get ready for the game of the year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 379 - Thanks to the Seattle Seahawks, the Cardinals are back in control of their playoff destiny. Beat the Rams on Sunday and they make the postseason for the first time since 2015. Though if this team hopes to be on the field past Week 17, then they must play a heck of a lot better than they did on Saturday against the 49ers. But first, Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki update the latest injury news on Kyler Murray.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 378 - After getting swept by the 49ers in 2019, the Cardinals look to return the favor this season. How do they get that done? Mike Jurecki has the answer with his three keys for a victory plus the ‘X’ factor in this Week 16 matchup. Also, he and Craig Grialou discuss the unfortunate news regarding Dennis Gardeck. But first, Larry Fitzgerald impersonates Allen Iverson. Is there anything No. 11 can’t do? Apparently not.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.