Cardinals Bolster Defense with Free Agent Signings Ahead of 2026 NFL Draft

Arizona adds veteran linebacker and defensive lineman to shore up front seven

Mar. 16, 2026 at 11:04pm

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The Arizona Cardinals have signed linebacker Jack Gibbens to a two-year deal and defensive lineman Andrew Billings to a one-year contract, filling holes left by the departures of Akeem Davis-Gaither and Dalvin Tomlinson. These veteran additions signal the team's approach heading into the 2026 NFL Draft, where they hold the third overall pick.

Why it matters

The Cardinals' free agent signings of Gibbens and Billings suggest the team is focused on strengthening its defense through experienced players before the draft. This could indicate their plans for the third overall selection, potentially targeting an edge rusher to complement the new additions to the front seven.

The details

Gibbens, a four-year veteran, had a PFF grade of 64.0 last season with the New England Patriots, ranking 37th out of 88 eligible linebackers. Billings, an eight-year pro, had a lower PFF grade of 38.7, ranking fourth among interior defensive linemen. However, the Cardinals are looking to add veteran leadership to their defense, which has lacked maturity in recent seasons.

  • The Cardinals signed Gibbens and Billings on March 16, 2026.
  • Gibbens played for the Patriots in the 2025 season.
  • Billings played for the Chicago Bears in the 2025 season.

The players

Monti Ossenfort

The fourth-year general manager of the Arizona Cardinals.

Jack Gibbens

A four-year veteran linebacker who the Cardinals signed to a two-year contract.

Andrew Billings

An eight-year veteran defensive lineman who the Cardinals signed to a one-year contract.

Akeem Davis-Gaither

A linebacker who was cut by the Cardinals.

Dalvin Tomlinson

A defensive lineman who was cut by the Cardinals.

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What they’re saying

“The Cardinals signed LB Jack Gibbens to a two-year contract and DL Andrew Billings to a one-year contract.”

— Josh Weinfuss, Reporter

What’s next

The Cardinals will now turn their attention to the 2026 NFL Draft, where they hold the third overall pick. They could target an edge rusher to complement the new additions to their front seven.

The takeaway

The Cardinals' free agent signings of Gibbens and Billings suggest a clear focus on strengthening their defense through experienced players before the draft. This approach could indicate their plans for the third overall pick, potentially targeting an edge rusher to bolster their pass rush.