The Arizona Cardinals' popular linebacker Josh Sweat has sparked drama after missing the team's OTAs in recent days, as reports indicate the Cardinals have been receiving trade calls for him. Amid this, the Green Bay Packers and the Dallas Cowboys have been linked to the star player.
Which Teams Are Interested in Josh Sweat?
Over the last few days, as Josh Sweat decided to miss the Arizona Cardinals' OTAs, he has been linked to the Green Bay Packers, the Dallas Cowboys, and the Kansas City Chiefs.
What Insiders Are Saying About the Trade Rumors?
A few days ago, Sportsnaut's Andrew Buller-Russ predicted that the Green Bay Packers and the Dallas Cowboys could emerge as potential landing spots for Josh Sweat. Buller-Russ noted in a recent report, "Josh Sweat has played for new Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon in Philadelphia and Arizona. He won a Super Bowl and became a Pro Bowler with the Eagles, and then signed a four-year, $76.5 million contract to follow Gannon to the Cardinals after the 2024 season ended. But now that Gannon has been let go in Arizona, Sweat has become unhappy. It's possible he has his eyes on following Gannon to Green Bay."
Buller-Russ added, "The Dallas Cowboys are still hunting for an impact edge rusher who can help fans move on from the Micah Parsons trade. While the All-Pro cannot be replaced by one man, trading for a proven Pro Bowler would provide an immediate boost while buying more time for the likes of first-round rookie Malachi Lawrence and 2025 second-round pick Donovan Ezeiruaku."
Contract Details and Salary Cap Implications
For the Arizona Cardinals, trading Josh Sweat after the June 1 window helps them clear up $10.88 million in immediate 2026 cap savings while incurring a $5.5 million dead cap hit. However, the Cardinals would have to carry a $16.5 million "dead money" penalty on their 2027 budget because of bonuses already paid to Sweat. For any team that trades for Sweat, they only have to pay him a $9.78 million salary for 2026 and are allowed to alter his contract without penalties.
How the Trade Could Impact the Teams
Josh Sweat recorded 12 sacks last season. For the Arizona Cardinals, while losing a star player, trading him will clear nearly $11 million, allowing the team to sign remaining draft picks or pursue free agents. For the Green Bay Packers, pairing Sweat with Rashan Gary could give them a competitive advantage in the new season. For the Dallas Cowboys, trading for Sweat would instantly fix their pass-rush vacancy left by Micah Parsons, as his salary will also be relatively affordable for the team.
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About the Author
Mahima Roy is a seasoned sports writer who covers the NFL and NBA with a mix of passion, insight, and storytelling. With a Master's in Media Management, she dives into everything from game-day drama to the cultural moments that shape today's athletes. When she's not working, she immerses herself in the world of pop culture, from dissecting iconic films to tracking the latest in hip-hop and sports documentaries. For Mahima, it's all about the stories on the field and beyond.
