Sportsbooks are notably pessimistic about a quick turnaround, with the early over/under win total set at 4.5—tied for the worst in the NFL. The betting line is even money on whether the Cardinals will hit or miss that mark, underscoring a broad lack of favorable expectations for the upcoming season.
Arizona’s 2026 schedule features tough opponents from both the NFC East and the AFC West, including the Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, Kansas City Chiefs, and Los Angeles Chargers, among others. The combination of a challenging schedule and some lingering roster gaps suggests the team could again struggle to reach a .500 record.
A key hurdle is the quarterback situation. With Kyler Murray likely unavailable for 2026 and Jacoby Brissett not viewed as a long-term solution, the Cardinals face a draft and development path at the quarterback position. Limited draft depth at quarterback and the absence of an obvious veteran upgrade complicate plans for an immediate improvement.
Defensive and offensive-line issues compound the challenge, making it difficult for Arizona to implement a quick turnaround. While a potential No. 3 overall pick could help on defense, a reliable quarterback remains the most critical missing piece for a meaningful 2026 upgrade.
Given the current landscape, a sustained rebuild appears likely, with a potential focus on future roster development over immediate wins. If the Cardinals can stabilize quarterback depth in 2027 and address key personnel gaps, gradual progress could follow; however, the 2026 season is expected to be challenging as the team positions itself for longer-term growth.
