Arizona Cardinals Podcasts

Fitz might be talking more golf than football these days, but the guys have talked about adding a running back for weeks, and now the Cardinals have one. So Paul Calvisi, Darren Urban and Kyle Odegard have plenty to say about newcomer James Conner, how he fits in with Chase Edmonds, what it means – or doesn’t mean – for the draft and Eno Benjamin, the question of just what will the Cardinals’ offense look like this season, whether players will skip the voluntary offseason work, Paul’s latest theory about Fitz, and just how much might the Cards reach for a cornerback in the draft?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Cardinals found the big running back they were looking for when they signed former Steeler James Conner to a one-year deal on Tuesday. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki talk about how Conner might work in the offense with returning running back Chase Edmonds. Plus, the guys get deep into NFL Draft talk and examine options at wide receiver, cornerback and tight end. What will the Cardinals do with the 16th pick overall?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 413 - Even with the addition of Malcolm Butler, cornerback remains the one position in need of the most work. So, it is good to hear scouts say this year’s draft is deep at that spot. Wide receiver, too, is a position where talent can be found in either the second or third round. It’s a position that is featured prominently between No. 31-40 on Mike Jurecki’s top-50 prospect countdown, which is highlighted on this show. And speaking of wide receiver, what do Jurecki and Craig Grialou make of Larry Fitzgerald being featured to help promote a golf tournament in Tampa? And not just any golf tournament in Tampa.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 502 - Former Cardinals wide receiver Frank Sanders joined Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley to talk about the offseason additions and upcoming NFL Draft. Sanders reveals why he thinks A.J. Green will thrive in Arizona, how competition leads to greatness and what he feels are the major traits of a good cornerback. Plus, we remember Sanders' role in the improbable 1998 Wild Card win over the Cowboys in Dallas.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 412 - Three weeks from today is the 2021 NFL Draft. With that in mind, Mike Jurecki begins to unveil his top-50 prospects list, highlighting on this show No. 41-50. Remember, the Cardinals have just two selections—No. 16 and 49 overall—among the first 50 picks and six total selections overall. Jurecki and Craig Grialou discuss what positions they would like to see addressed at the end of the three-day draft. Plus, there was a Larry Fitzgerald sighting in Jurecki’s neighborhood. What does it mean? Probably nothing, but it’s a good story.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s good that Paul Calvisi and Kyle Odegard have settled their differences from a week ago, leaving an easy transition for the two to join Darren Urban to discuss the Reggie White/J.J. Watt parallels, what’s left for the Cardinals to do in free agency, that cornerback position heading into the draft, the pros and cons of trading away the first-round pick for an established veteran or the need for immediate impact from 16, the offseason aggressiveness in the NFC West, the need to chase a QB in the NFL, Colt McCoy’s role and, of course, Fitzwatch and the A.J. Green meaning.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Cardinals significantly boosted the leadership in the locker room with additions made in the offseason. Craig Grialou, Mike Jurecki and Bertrand Berry talk about how leadership can take the team to the next level. The guys also discuss A.J. Green's change of scenery, Rodney Hudson's style and the duo of J.J. Watt and Chandler Jones as they seek to disrupt opposing quarterbacks. Plus, a look ahead to the 2020 NFL Draft.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 411 - Best Dressed. Most Popular. Most Likely To Succeed. Remember those categories back in middle school and high school? Sure you do. Well, Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki put a different spin on the yearbook-style superlatives when looking at many of the moves made by the Cardinals this offseason. Feel free to agree or disagree with their selections. There is no debate, however, that the team has been aggressive with the additions to the roster. Also, the guys discuss the difficult conversations GM Steve Keim has had with a handful of players concerning their position on the team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 501 - Former Cardinals defensive lineman Frostee Rucker joined Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley to talk about J.J. Watt teaming with Chandler Jones up front, the outlook for the defense overall and how leadership can help take a team to the next level. Plus, Rucker discusses wide receiver A.J. Green and center Rodney Hudson, one-time teammates of his with the Bengals and Raiders respectively. According to Rucker, the change of scenery could propel Green to a productive season in Arizona.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 410 - It’s certainly not going to grab the headlines, but the free-agent signing of Colt McCoy did grab the attention of both Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki. The Cardinals needed to bring a veteran into the quarterback room. McCoy has been around the block a time or two, and he can be a great sounding board for Kyler Murray. Also, the additions this week of Shawn Williams and Chris Banjo solidify the safety position.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It should’ve just been another podcast talking about 17-game seasons and Malcolm Butler’s arrival, but Paul Calvisi and Kyle Odegard nearly came to virtual blows on the subject of leadership and how important it really is for the Cardinals -- with Darren Urban trying the play peacemaker. Thank goodness they were able to get past it all, and move on to Butler’s impact and what is still needed at cornerback, how the 49ers trade impacts the NFC West and the its future, the addition of a 17th regular-season game to the schedule, and Paul’s latest why Fitz-is-waiting theory – and how we may all want to be checking our fax machines.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the past week, the Cardinals helped themselves fill a big need by adding four players to the secondary. Craig Grialou, Mike Jurecki and Bertrand Berry talk about the roles for cornerback Malcolm Butler along with safeties Charles Washington, Shawn Williams and Chris Banjo. Plus, discussions on the offensive line and tight end group as well as the latest news and notes coming out of the NFC West.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 409 - It would seem to be one of life’s necessary evils: putting a grade on a team’s offseason moves, be it a signing or acquisition by trade. Yet, by all accounts, the Cardinals have done very well for themselves according to the so-called experts. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki review some of the grades given. Plus, what do the guys make of the 49ers now holding the No. 3 overall pick in the draft? First though, why it was good to see J.J. Watt “call out” Kyler Murray on social media over the weekend.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 500 - The Cardinals filled the biggest need on their roster on Thursday when they agreed to terms with cornerback Malcolm Butler. Paul Calvisi, Ron Wolfley and Darren Urban discuss Butler's fit, what's next for the corner position, the deep offensive line and yet another Larry Fitzgerald update. Plus, the guys celebrate the 500th episode of the Big Red Rage by remembering some of the greatest moments from the past 20 years of the show.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 408 - It was a need heading into free agency, and it remained a need after the first week of free agency. But no longer. News broke Thursday that the Cardinals had agreed to terms with Malcolm Butler on a one-year contract, filling a need at the top cornerback position. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki discuss the move to add a proven veteran, though each would like to see another move or two at the position. Also, the guys look at where general manager Steve Keim might strike next when it comes to roster addition.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Cardinals have done a bunch in the first week of free agency, but there are still areas to address, and who better to chat about them than Paul Calvisi, Darren Urban and Kyle Odegard. There is a deep dive into the cornerback spot now that Patrick Peterson has departed (and the options if we get to the draft), what makes sense at running back whether or not Chase Edmonds is No. 1, tight end needs (no, not Fitz), Paul’s latest Fitz announcement conspiracy theory, with a dollop of Magnús Ver Magnússon debate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the offseason priorities for the Cardinals was to strengthen the offensive line. Trading for center Rodney Hudson was a good start. Craig Grialou, Paul Calvsi, Bertrand Berry and Mike Jurecki discuss Hudson's potential impact, Kelvin Beachum's return to right tackle, Justin Pugh taking a pay cut and restructuring his contract and much more. Plus, a look at the wide receiver room with the addition of A.J. Green and plans at cornerback following the departure of Patrick Peterson.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 407 - It’s not often an offensive lineman catches the attention of a fan base. Yet, that’s exactly what happened when the Cardinals acquired Rodney Hudson. And for good reason. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki discuss why Hudson not only makes the entire offensive line better but should help with the improvement of Kyler Murray as he enters year three. Also, there are a number of reasons why a player chooses to sign with a particular team in free agency. And yes, money may be No. 1, but not too far behind—and for some tops on their list—are the relationships they have with a coach and/or player.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 499 - The Cardinals defense got a boost just prior to the new league year when linebacker Markus Golden inked a two-year contract to remain with the Big Red. Golden joined Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley to discuss new additions to the team, rushing the QB with J.J. Watt and Chandler Jones and what he likes about Vance Joseph's scheme. Plus, Golden talks about the departures of teammates Haason Reddick and Patrick Peterson who both signed elsewhere during via free agency.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 406 - It was a good run. Correction. It was a great run. And now it’s over. Patrick Peterson will be wearing a Vikings uniform this season. Yes, it’s going to be odd to see. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki discuss what Peterson meant to the team both on and off the field, including all of his good deeds in the community. There’s no question Peterson was less than his best the past two years, yet that does not discount his Ring of Honor-worthy body of work over 10 seasons. Also, A.J. Green speaks. What did he have to say about his new team?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Call it free agency with a flourish. After the first day of the new league year, Paul Calvisi, Darren Urban and Kyle Odegard discuss the trade for Pro Bowl center Rodney Hudson; how Hudson now solidifies the offensive line; the signing of A.J. Green and what Green has left in the tank; how Green has patterned his career after Larry Fitzgerald; what Green’s arrival might mean for Fitz’s decision on his future; the addition of kicker Matt Prater and the confidence level needed with kickers; and Paul takes a moment for storytime and his bond with Green.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 405 - Seems fitting that here on St. Patrick’s Day, green would be the word of the day for the Cardinals during the first day of the new league year. First, A.J. Green agrees to terms, satisfying the team’s need to find a No. 2 wide receiver. Then, center Rodney Hudson is acquired via trade with the Raiders which following the re-signing of right tackle Kelvin Beachum, adds another veteran piece to the offensive line. Hudson and Beachum are far from green in their experience on the line of scrimmage. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki discuss the busy start to free agency, including reacting in real time to the news the team has a new kicker in Matt Prater.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As teams begin to talk with free agents around the league, Paul Calvisi, Darren Urban and Kyle Odegard begin to talk about the moves and potential moves of the Cardinals, including the important retention of Markus Golden, the market for Haason Reddick and Patrick Peterson, the question of Fitz, if the Cards might fill all their needs in free agency, and Paul’s growing addiction to props.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 404 - Well, it looks like the frenzy has already begun. There's a lot of legal tampering going on. The Cardinals made their first move by agreeing to terms with linebacker Markus Golden on a two-year deal. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki welcome back the ‘Junkyard Dog’. They then wonder who’s next and what positions might the team most want to address here when free agency officially starts on Wednesday. Also, Jurecki shares his experience on volunteering at the vaccination facility at State Farm Stadium, where the 500,000th dose of the COVID-19 vaccine was administered on Monday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Linebacker Markus Golden has always said that he loves playing in Arizona. It should come as no surprise that Golden and the Cardinals came to agreement on a two-year contract to keep the fan favorite in the desert. Craig Grialou, Mike Jurecki and Bertrand Berry talk about teaming Golden with Chandler Jones and J.J. Watt in the pass rush. Plus, discussions about the start of free agency and how needs at wide receiver and cornerback may be addressed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 403 - It’s been a frequent question asked since the arrival of Kliff Kingsbury. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki bring it once again as they examine the tight end position. Only two other teams, the Eagles and Titans, ran two-tight end sets more than the Cardinals last season. Plus, the guys discuss special teams—a kicker and punter are both needed—to conclude their position-by-position breakdown ahead of free agency. And speaking of free agency, it sounds like it’s been an interesting week for cornerback Robert Alford.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep 498 - NFL Network reporter Steve Wyche joined Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley to talk about J.J. Watt's arrival in Arizona, Kyler Murray's progress, the NFC West quarterback landscape and the upcoming NFL Free Agency period. Which veteran free agent receiver would be a good fit with the Cardinals? Plus, Wyche talks about his podcast "Huddle and Flow" which created a stir in the NFL news cycle on Thursday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 402 - From year one to year two, Kyler Murray made a lot of improvement. He’s shown he can make all the throws and be an effective runner. But what’s next for the young quarterback? Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki discuss as they continue their position-by-position breakdown ahead of free agency. And speaking of free agency, the guys make the argument for the Cardinals to invest in a quality veteran backup—with the hope that he never sees the field—because it’s always good to have a Plan B.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Paul Calvisi, Darren Urban and Kyle Odegard cannonball into the deep end of free agency talk with free agent talk – and the franchise tag – dominating the days a week out. The trio discuss no tag for Haason Reddick and Reddick’s future; the potential of another high-profile signing despite the Cards closing in on the cap; the rookie contract window of Kyler and the inevitability of a giant Murray extension; what the future looks like at cornerback and Patrick Peterson; FitzWatch 2021; and what position the Cardinals should chase in free agency.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cardinals fans are understandably excited about J.J. Watt joining the Cardinals. Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph may be even more fired up to secure Watt's services for his defense. Craig Grialou, Mike Jurecki and Bertrand Berry break down Joseph's recent comments about how the Cardinals plan to use Watt in the defensive scheme. How will Watt's presence affect Chandler Jones? Plus, a look ahead to free agency and what the Cardinals may do to fill some of their needs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 401 - Call it the trickle-down effect. What does the arrival of J.J. Watt mean for Haason Reddick and Markus Golden? Those two players are scheduled to become unrestricted free agents. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki discuss the team’s options at outside linebacker as the guys resume their position-by-position breakdown. Also, the inside linebacker spot is examined with an emphasis on how much better Isaiah Simmons can be in his second year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 497 - On Monday, the Cardinals surprised many in the NFL when they signed free agent defensive lineman J.J. Watt to a two-year contract. Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph joined Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley to talk about his role in the recruitment process, where Watt will play in the defense and the leadership he brings the Cardinals both on and off the field. Plus, find out why Joseph said it was a "no brainer" to sign Watt after watching film and why he is a "perfect fit" for the Cardinals defense.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s still true – J.J. Watt is a Cardinal, as odd as it sounds. Does his presence impact not only the pass rush but the culture? Paul Calvisi, Darren Urban and Kyle Odegard chew on that topic, as well as considering the unretirement of No. 99, Watt’s ability to be inspirational for the defense and the “whole lot” of gas he says he has left, how his salary cap number might be figured and what it means to the Cards, the opportunities the Cards have in free agency as they look ready to push their chips in, what it means for Pat P and Haason Reddick and again, much discussion on the ripple effect for a Fitz decision.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 400 - The signing of J.J. Watt checks a lot of boxes the Cardinals wanted to address in the offseason. But there are still several more boxes that need to be filled if this team hopes to be playing games deep into January. So, what is that next box? Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki give their thoughts after hearing from general manager Steve Keim who spoke to the media on Wednesday. How aggressive will the Cardinals be in free agency? How many of the team’s own free agents might be retained? And what is the latest on Larry Fitzgerald?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 399 - Everyone wanted to know J.J. Watt chose to sign with the Arizona Cardinals. There were a number of factors, he said on Tuesday, but the biggest might’ve been Kyler Murray. Watt said he texted Murray, “I’m here because I believe in you.” That’s quite the endorsement. Craig Grialou and Mike Jurecki discuss what that text message means for Murray and the Cardinals going forward. Also, Watt detailed how he was able to break the news of his signing—it was quite the elaborate plan—and the gratitude he has for the Marshall Goldberg family for allowing him to wear No. 99.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.