Defensive tackle Grover Stewart would help Arizona Cardinals defend the run in 2024

It’s challenging to envision the Arizona Cardinals landing a top-tier free agent this offseason, but anything remains possible. There’s a realistic chance that general manager Monti Ossenfort might need to offer higher-than-average contracts to secure desired players. Nevertheless, the Cardinals are in dire need of changes on both offense and defense. Depending on which aspect of the team one prioritizes, it’s evident that the defensive line requires attention.

Under the guidance of defensive-minded head coach Jonathan Gannon, who enters his second year, the Cardinals must demonstrate their capability to assemble a formidable defensive unit. One impending free agent who could significantly bolster their run defense is defensive tackle Grover Stewart from the Indianapolis Colts.

Standing tall at 6’4″, Stewart brings a formidable physical presence, capable of holding his own against offensive linemen in both rushing and passing situations. Although he had a subdued performance last season with the Colts, missing six games and tallying only half a sack and 41 total tackles, Stewart showcased his dominance in the 2021 and 2022 seasons. During those years, he appeared in all 34 games, accumulating impressive statistics including five batted passes, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, five sacks, and 116 total tackles.

In the previous season, the Cardinals struggled defensively, allowing an average of 143 rushing yards per game and registering only 33 quarterback sacks. Acquiring a player of Stewart’s caliber could bolster the interior of their defensive line, potentially drawing double teams and creating opportunities for other defenders to make impactful plays. Even such an influence could catalyze an improvement in the Cardinals’ run defense.