Cardinals Face Decision on Free Agent Veteran WR

Arizona must decide whether to retain Zay Jones after two seasons of limited production.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Arizona Cardinals are facing a decision on whether to re-sign veteran wide receiver Zay Jones this offseason. Jones joined the team in 2024 as a depth piece but was expected to be the starting slot receiver in 2025 after re-signing. However, Jones only played 19 games across his two seasons in Arizona due to suspensions and injuries, and he'll be turning 31 this year. With the Cardinals' receiving corps in flux, the team must determine if Jones fits into their plans under new head coach Mike LaFleur.

Why it matters

The Cardinals' decision on Jones will impact the team's receiving room, which is already lacking depth after several key free agents are set to hit the market. With top targets Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson locked in, the Cardinals will need to add more weapons to support tight end Trey McBride and complement their run-focused offense under LaFleur.

The details

Jones provides size at the slot position and had previously shown production with the Jacksonville Jaguars, but he hasn't been able to make a significant impact in Arizona. The Cardinals' heavy run-focused approach under former offensive coordinator Drew Petzing limited Jones' opportunities, and it remains to be seen how he would fit into LaFleur's plans. With Jones set to be a free agent, the Cardinals will have to decide if he's worth retaining or if they need to look elsewhere to bolster their receiving corps.

  • Jones joined the Cardinals in the 2024 offseason.
  • Jones re-signed with the Cardinals in 2025.
  • Jones will be turning 31 later this year.

The players

Zay Jones

A veteran wide receiver who joined the Arizona Cardinals in 2024 and was expected to be the team's starting slot receiver in 2025 after re-signing, but only played 19 games across his two seasons in Arizona due to suspensions and injuries.

Trey McBride

The Cardinals' starting tight end, who is expected to be a key part of the team's passing attack under new head coach Mike LaFleur.

Marvin Harrison Jr.

One of the Cardinals' top wide receiver targets, along with Michael Wilson, who are the undisputed duo at the top of the team's receiving corps.

Michael Wilson

One of the Cardinals' top wide receiver targets, along with Marvin Harrison Jr., who are the undisputed duo at the top of the team's receiving corps.

Mike LaFleur

The new head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, who will be tasked with determining how Zay Jones fits into the team's plans.

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What’s next

The Cardinals will need to decide whether to re-sign Zay Jones or let him hit the free agent market this offseason as they look to bolster their receiving corps under new head coach Mike LaFleur.

The takeaway

The Cardinals' decision on Zay Jones will be an important one as they look to build a well-rounded receiving unit to complement their run-focused offense under LaFleur. With several key free agents set to depart, the team will need to add more weapons to support Trey McBride and their top wideouts, Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson.