Arizona Cardinals Podcasts

As the Cardinals reach the dead of the summer, Craig Grialou, Darren Urban and Dani Sureck each take a shot at picking what position unit will be the most crucial for the team this season – not counting quarterback, which remains No. 1 for every team every year. What positions did they choose? The hint: one on offense, two on defense. Let the debates begin.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 1013 - There’s no mistaking the smile. New Cardinals wide receiver Reggie Virgil is a happy man. He’s happy to have been drafted. He’s happy the Cardinals took a chance on him. He’s happy for the opportunity to learn from the number of talented pass catchers on the team. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman talk about their early impressions and interactions with the fifth-round pick out of Texas Tech plus what role(s) Virgil may play in his first NFL season. Then the guys hear from the man himself. Recently, Virgil joined Paul Calvisi to discuss his back...

Ep. 773 - Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley break down the Cardinals offseason progress as the countdown to training camp begins, discussing the impact of new head coach Mike LaFleur, key takeaways from OTAs and minicamp, and the roster battles that could define the season. They also dive into rookie quarterback Carson Beck’s early progress and what an extra preseason game could mean for the Cardinals’ quarterback situation. The conversation shifts to linebacker Mack Wilson Sr.’s return from injury and the importance of his role as the “quarterback” of the defense. Plus, in celebration of Larry Fitzgerald’s upcoming Pro Football...

Ep. 1012 - It’s a good problem to have. Especially given what the Cardinals went through at running back last season. The additions of Jeremiyah Love and Tyler Allgeier have increased the depth and significantly - at least on paper - upgraded the position. Now how everything shakes out once the team breaks training camp is anyone's guess. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman go in depth about running back, including how head coach Mike LaFleur may divvy up snaps and carries among the different players. From there, Craig and Zach turn their attention to what the Cardinals did to address th...

Ep. 196 - Jesús Quiñonez, Rolando Cantú e Irving Villanueva platican sobre la visita de los rookies a Chase Field y el primer lanzamiento de Jeremiyah Love previo al juego de los Diamondbacks. Además, analizan las primeras impresiones de Carson Beck, comparten las historias que seguirán de cerca rumbo al Training Camp y conversan sobre la fiebre mundialista que se vive alrededor del mundo.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

OK, so Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck probably don’t want to be an assistant to Darren Urban. That’s OK. At some point, Darren needs to be more efficient with his time - on or off the clock. In the meantime, our trio delve into the Cardinals minicamp and the last practice being canceled (and what it means, and does not mean), they chew on Darren’s top takeaways from the offseason work, thinking about Carson Beck’s mindset, the idea of defensive changes in 2026, Getting Cultured with Dani, and a mailbag question about the health/outlook of Garrett Williams...

Mandatory minicamp is now in the rearview mirror. Craig Grialou, Zach Gershman, and former Cardinals linebacker Lorenzo Alexander take a closer look at the biggest storylines heading into training camp. The guys discuss several encouraging injury updates, including Garrett Williams' surprisingly fast recovery timeline, the potential impact of Walter Nolen III and Denzel Burke in their second season, what a healthy Mack Wilson Sr. means for the defense, and why Trey McBride’s historic 2025 season may only be the beginning.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 772 - As the Cardinals wrap up offseason work and turn their attention toward training camp, Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley break down the biggest storylines shaping the roster, from a potentially fascinating quarterback competition featuring Jacoby Brissett, Gardner Minshew, and rookie Carson Beck to encouraging injury updates on key contributors like Garrett Williams and Walter Nolen III. Calvisi and Wolf also examine the impact of Mike LaFleur’s offensive system, why Trey McBride could be poised for an even bigger season, and several training camp battles to watch, including a crowded cornerback room and key questions along the offensive li...

Ep. 1011 - And that’s a wrap; the offseason work - the official work, anyway - is done. Nothing now until training camp. That doesn’t stop Craig Grialou and Darren Urban from looking back at what the Cardinals accomplished over the past nine weeks under first-year head coach Mike LaFleur. Craig and Darren discuss the good news like the overall health of the team, especially about what LaFleur had to say about Garrett Williams; the guys also talk about the uncertainty at quarterback, how LaFleur handles rookies, and the one position battle that’s been settled. From there, Craig and Da...

Ep. 195 - Jesús Quiñonez, Rolando Cantú e Irving Villanueva analizan el arranque del minicamp obligatorio de los Cardinals, donde la asistencia perfecta envió un mensaje claro sobre el compromiso del equipo con el proyecto de Mike LaFleur. Además, reaccionan al regreso de Jacoby Brissett y a la importancia de su presencia dentro del vestidor, mientras Mack Wilson comparte por qué se siente más cómodo que nunca dentro de la defensa y listo para asumir un papel aún mayor en 2026.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Minicamp is here, and so are all the players, and Craig Grialou, Darren Urban and Dani Sureck have lots to talk about. That includes the arrivals of Jacoby Brissett and Josh Sweat to mandatory work, Brissett’s situation heading into training camp, our first mailbag entry on the podcast, needing a full running back room, Trey McBride’s continuing evolution, Getting Cultured with Dani, Nick Rallis’ obsession with player development, Michael Wilson’s burgeoning friendship with Larry Fitzgerald, and Craig’s airport issues.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The last week of the offseason program is here as the Cardinals begin mandatory minicamp. Craig Grialou, Zach Gershman, and former Cardinals linebacker Rob Fredrickson discuss the quarterback room with Jacoby Brissett back in the building. The guys also discuss Arizona's deep running back room, led by James Conner, Tyler Allgeier, and rookie Jeremiyah Love, and how a more balanced, physical attack could help take pressure off the passing game. On the defensive side, the crew examines Nick Rallis' plans for improvement after a difficult finish to last season, the value of continuity within the system, and how new voices...

Ep. 771 - Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley break down the Cardinals offseason progress as OTAs wrap up and mandatory minicamp approaches. They examine first-year head coach Mike LaFleur’s influence on the team, his offensive philosophy, and the potential impact of dynamic playmakers such as Marvin Harrison Jr., Trey McBride, and rookie running back Jeremiyah Love. Plus, they sit down for an extended conversation with rookie seventh-round offensive lineman Jayden Williams and discuss Harrison’s determination to bounce back from an injury-marred 2025 season, along with the growing challenge of the NFC West following the Rams blockbuster acquisition of Myles Garrett.

See...

Ep. 1010 - Your best ability is availability. Yes, it’s cliché. But it’s also true. Last season Marvin Harrison Jr. was not available for every game as he was as a rookie in 2024. To this day that bothers him. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman talk about what they heard from Harrison this week before getting into a discussion about expectations and a likely role for the former first-round pick in a Mike LaFleur-coached offense. From there, the conversation turns to Josh Sweat and his future, Sean Murphy-Bunting and his comeback from a knee injury, and is this really going to ha...

Ep. 194 - Jesús Quiñonez, Rolando Cantú e Irving Villanueva reaccionan a la llegada de Myles Garrett a la NFC West y analizan lo que significa para los Cardinals. Además, Marvin Harrison Jr. comparte las lecciones que le dejaron las lesiones de la temporada pasada, mientras Dadrion "Rabbit" Taylor-Demerson habla sobre la renovada defensiva de Nick Rallis. También repasamos las últimas observaciones de OTA's antes del minicamp obligatorio.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dani Sureck has returned much to her chagrin, but Craig Grialou and Darren Urban welcome her back anyway, as they chat about what they would be willing to spend for a ticket to a big sporting event, how to interpret OTA workouts, Marvin Harrison Jr.’s big third year coming up, expectations on any player in his rookie year (like Carson Beck), how people use “bust” too easily, Myles Garrett’s arrival in the NFC West, the most surprising Cardinals acquisitions over the years, Gardner Minshew’s role, and the law office of Budda, Dewey and Rabbit.

See omnystudio.com/listen...

Craig Grialou, Zach Gershman and former Cardinals linebacker Rob Fredrickson discuss the final week of Cardinals OTAs, the absence of veterans Josh Sweat and Jacoby Brissett, and how new head coach Mike LaFleur is shaping his roster. Plus, they examine Gardner Minshew's early impact on the locker room, Carson Beck's development, Budda Baker's leadership entering his 10th NFL season, and how Arizona's defense could evolve in 2026 as the Cardinals prepare for a pivotal year in a highly competitive division. However, the biggest news of the week came out of Los Angeles as the Rams sent shockwaves through the NFL by...

Ep. 770 - As OTAs roll on, Paul Calvisi and former Cardinals offensive lineman Earl Watford have plenty to talk about. Calvisi and Watford, who is filling in for the vacationing Ron Wolfley, take a look at Mike LaFleur’s offense and the “illusion of complexity” that could be a problem for opposing defenders. The guys also discuss what Jeremiyah Love brings to the offense, Watford gives his take on the revamped offensive line and why the Cardinals could lean heavily on the run game this season and what Gardner Minshew brings to the quarterback room. Plus, the guys swap stories about...

Ep. 1009 - Signed back in March, Gardner Minshew is currently QB1. How long will he last in that role? Good question. For his part, it doesn’t sound like Minshew is all that worried about his role, at least not publicly. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman react to hearing from Minshew for the first time since he arrived in the desert. He spoke after Wednesday’s practice, which was the second OTA open to the media. Craig and Zach discuss what they saw and a lot about what they heard from head coach Mike LaFleur and safety Budda Baker, who ment...

Ep. 193 - Jesús Quiñonez, Rolando Cantú e Irving Villanueva analizan y comentan todo lo que dejó la segunda semana de OTA’s. En este episodio de La Tacleada Cardinals, reaccionan a lo visto durante la práctica en el Dignity Health Arizona Cardinals Training Center, comparten observaciones sobre el equipo y desmenuzan las declaraciones del head coach Mike LaFleur tras el entrenamiento. Además, repasamos fechas importantes rumbo al inicio de la temporada 2026.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Craig Grialou just wants to have people understand how to drive, full stop. But there is also a lot of football to cover. Along with Darren Urban and Zach Gershman, the trio discuss the authenticity coach Mike LaFleur brings to the table, how quarterback will also be a top topic this time of year regardless of team or situation, Jacoby Brissett’s standing, Carson Beck’s unknown short-term future, the potential extensions of Michael Wilson and Paris Johnson Jr., waiting on Walter Nolen III (and all of the defensive draft picks), and how Patrick Peterson is the next potential Cardinals Hall...

As Phase 3 of the Cardinals offseason program continues, Craig Grialou, Zach Gershman, and former Cardinals linebacker Rob Fredrickson break down how OTAs benefit new head coach Mike LaFleur.  The crew also discuss expectations for Marvin Harrison Jr. entering a pivotal third season, including how a revamped offensive scheme may help unlock his full potential alongside Trey McBride and Michael Wilson, the state of the offensive line and the leadership of Hjalte Froholdt and Paris Johnson Jr. and examine how the defensive line can improve in 2026 with the return of Roy Lopez and young players like Darius Robinson and Walter Nolen I...

Ep. 769 - Head Coach Mike LaFleur's first OTA practices are underway. Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley break down how the new coaching staff is establishing the team’s identity and culture, while also examining standout observations from early practices, including the return of Mack Wilson Sr. and the development of key young players like Michael Wilson and Marvin Harrison Jr. Paul sits down with rookie QB Carson Beck where they discuss his path from the University of Georgia and the University of Miami to the NFL, what he learned from adversity and injury, and why he believes his experience has pr...

Ep. 192 - Las OTA's ya están en marcha y en Arizona comienza a sentirse la influencia de Mike LaFleur. En este episodio de La Tacleada, Jesús Quiñones, Rolando Cantú e Irving Villanueva hablan sobre el ambiente que se vive dentro del equipo, la energía que varios jugadores han destacado durante las prácticas y cómo poco a poco empieza a tomar forma esta nueva etapa de los Cardinals rumbo a 2026.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why would Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman consider the idea of shirtless fans? Who knows. But they join Darren Urban (Dani Sureck is on assignment) to chat about the initial OTAs and top takeaways like the mammoth Andrew Billings and Max Melton’s big third year, 13 personnel and Tip Reiman, Jacoby Brissett and how that situation could play out, cornerbacks galore, Michael Wilson and MHJ and how the stats look for a winning team, Trey McBride’s thirst to win, Mack Wilson’s health as he plays basketball, and the Wemby vs. everyone else conundrum.

See omnystudio.com/listener for pr...

Craig Grialou, Zach Gershman and former Cardinals linebacker Lorenzo Alexander break down the start of Phase 3 of the offseason program as organized team activities officially get underway in Tempe. The crew discusses what OTAs mean for both rookies and veterans, the importance of pre-snap execution and communication in Mike LaFleur’s new system, and how the first-year head coach is building relationships while establishing accountability. They also dive into Michael Wilson’s breakout 2025 campaign, why his growth appears sustainable, and how the Cardinals offense could evolve with Marvin Harrison Jr., Trey McBride and rookie running back Jeremiyah Love in the mix...

Ep. 1008 - The workweek begins with all players in the building and on the field for Phase 3 of the offseason program. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman discuss the start of organized team activities, or OTAs for short. Craig and Zach then break down the just-released Cardinals’ schedule. The who and the where have been known for months. Now the when, how the 17 games over 18 weeks will be stacked. And let’s be honest, the schedule is a tough one. It’s front-loaded with road trips and back-loaded with home games. Craig and Zach go game-by-game, looking at the matchups and the st...

Ep. 768 - Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley dive headfirst into the Arizona Cardinals newly released 2026 schedule and break down every twist, turn, and “triangle of terror” awaiting Mike LaFleur's squad. From a tough opening stretch against the Chargers, Seahawks, and 49ers to late-season opportunities against the Jets, Saints, and Raiders, Calvisi and Wolf analyze the league’s toughest projected schedule through the lens of physicality, quarterback play, and NFC West rivalries. The show also explores how young players like Walter Nolen, Trey McBride, Marvin Harrison Jr., and potentially Carson Beck could help shape Arizona’s season.

See omnystudio.com/listener...

Ep. 191 - Los Cardenales de Arizona ya conocen su calendario para la temporada 2026 y Jesús Quiñonez, Irving Villanueva y Rolando Cantú reaccionan a lo más destacado del horario. Los duelos más llamativos, los viajes más complicados, los partidos en horario estelar y las historias que rodean la nueva temporada son parte de la conversación mientras analizan lo que le espera a Arizona este año.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the rookies mesh with the veterans, the chant comes up, Craig Grialou Graduates! Or something like that. In the meantime, Craig talks with Darren Urban and Dani Sureck about Carson Beck’s reps and gravitas, no more 2027 QB talk, analyzing rookie minicamp, Larry Fitzgerald visits the first-year players, the scramble-ability of the QB room, Jeremiyah Love’s financial sense and NIL impacting players as they come into the league, Chase Bisontis as potential starter and how the Cards could prep him in practice, and a look at the upcoming schedule release.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Craig Grialou, Zach Gershman and former Cardinals linebacker Rob Fredrickson discuss the buzz surrounding the NFL’s 2026 schedule release while breaking down the Cardinals draft class, including running back Jeremiyah Love’s explosive potential, quarterback Carson Beck’s experience and leadership, and how the new additions could bring more size, toughness and versatility to the offense heading into training camp.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 1007 - It was just the start, but no less important. For the first time since the draft, the rookie class, including first-round pick Jeremiyah Love, was on the field, wearing Cardinals gear and doing football-related activities. It wasn’t a full-blown practice, but it did represent the first time this group of players experienced life in the NFL. Their college days are no more. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman discuss what they saw and, more importantly, what they heard both on and off the field during rookie minicamp; from Love describing how he plans to handle his life-changing money to...

Ep. 767 - Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley are joined by Cardinals assistant GM Dave Sears to break down the team’s entire draft class. Sears discusses the decision to select explosive Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love with the third overall pick, the value of elite running backs in today’s NFL, and why the Cardinals believe quarterback Carson Beck has the experience and maturity to compete early in his career. The conversation also explores how Mike LaFleur’s offensive scheme could maximize Arizona’s new weapons, while Wolf and Calvisi examine expectations for Beck, the upside of fifth-round wide receiver...

Ep. 190 - Jesús Quiñonez, Irving Villanueva y Rolando Cantú platican sobre la primera rueda de prensa de los novatos de los Cardinals, sus primeras impresiones y el inicio de su nueva etapa en la NFL. Además, Carson Beck y Reggie Virgil dejaron una muy buena impresión y demostraron la emoción que sienten por este nuevo reto en sus carreras.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 1006 - Best player in the draft. Path to be a starter. Day 1 starter at right guard. That’s how ESPN Draft Analyst Matt Miller described Jeremiyah Love, Carson Beck and Chase Bisontis, respectively. Miller rejoined Craig Grialou - the two first spoke back at the Scouting Combine in Indianapolis - to discuss why he believes Love’s talent should be considered on the same level as fellow running backs Saquon Barkley and Bijan Robinson, how a quarterback like Beck fits what Mike LaFleur wants to do offensively, and then there’s Bisontis, who Miller thinks could’ve heard his name cal...

As our trio say goodbye (again) to Calais Campbell, Craig Grialou, Darren Urban and Dani Sureck dive back into the rookie class as they arrive for their first minicamp. What we see this first weekend might not really have any lasting impact, but with Carson Beck on the field for the first time, the question is about the upcoming quarterback competition and how that could play out. The three also address a couple other QB names floating out there (insert “incorrect” buzzer here), get cultured with Dani, talk about BJ Ojulari’s big year and the edge rusher situation, JG takes...

Craig Grialou, Zach Gershman and former Cardinals linebacker Lorenzo Alexander react to Calais Campbell’s departure, break down the upcoming rookie minicamp and spotlight first-round RB Jeremiyah Love’s fit in the offense. Plus, discussions about the evolving offensive line with second-round pick Chase Bisontis in the mix, leadership growth from Paris Johnson Jr., and the new-look quarterback room featuring rookie Carson Beck joining veterans Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 1005 - If there’s one thing A.Q. Shipley knows, it’s football. A former player turned analyst, he joined Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck on Monday to discuss the 2026 NFL Draft. Shipley shared insights from covering the draft in Pittsburgh for The Pat McAfee Show and broke down the Cardinals’ seven selections over three days. Entering his second season as the team’s color analyst, Shipley is high on running back Jeremiyah Love and offensive lineman Chase Bisontis. He also expressed excitement about quarterback Carson Beck’s pro potential after witnessing his Offensive MVP performance in the Fiesta Bowl. Ship...

Ep. 766 - Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley are joined by Cardinals Ring of Honor safety Adrian Wilson to break down the team’s latest draft class from Flanker Kitchen and Sports Bar on the Great Lawn at State Farm Stadium. The show highlights the excitement surrounding top pick Jeremiyah Love and the impact he could have on the Cardinals’ offense. They also discuss quarterback Carson Beck and what he might bring as a rookie, along with a look at potential Day 3 sleepers who could emerge and make a name for themselves in the NFL.

See omnystudio.com/listener for priv...

Ep. 1004 - If there’s one person - outside of his family, of course - who knows Jeremiyah Love more than most, then it’s got to be the person who recruited him and coached him for three years in college. That’s right, we’re talking about Marcus Freeman. The Notre Dame head coach joined Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman on Wednesday to talk about Love, first as a person then as a player; and listening to Coach Freeman, there isn’t anything Love can’t do on the football field. Plus, Craig and Zach go over the seven undrafted ro...