Cardinals Sign Defensive Linemen L.J. Collier and Roy Lopez

Arizona brings back two key defensive pieces on new contracts

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Arizona Cardinals have signed defensive linemen L.J. Collier and Roy Lopez to new deals. Collier, who missed most of last season due to injury, agreed to a one-year, $2.5 million contract. Lopez, who spent 2025 with the Detroit Lions, re-signed with the Cardinals on a two-year, $11 million deal with $7.5 million guaranteed. The pair will join a defensive line room that includes Walter Nolen III, Darius Robinson, and Dante Stills.

Why it matters

The Cardinals are looking to bolster their defensive line after the potential departure of veteran Calais Campbell. Retaining Collier and Lopez provides continuity and depth up front as the team aims to improve on a defense that struggled at times in 2025.

The details

Collier, 26, was placed on injured reserve early last season after suffering a knee injury in Week 2. He returned for the final two games, recording six tackles and two quarterback hits in his four appearances. Lopez, 25, spent 2025 with the Detroit Lions, starting 17 games and recording two sacks, four tackles for loss, and a pass defensed.

  • Collier was placed on injured reserve in Week 2 of the 2025 season.
  • Collier returned for the final two games of the 2025 season.
  • Lopez spent the 2025 season with the Detroit Lions.

The players

L.J. Collier

A 26-year-old defensive lineman who has spent the last three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals.

Roy Lopez

A 25-year-old defensive lineman who spent the 2025 season with the Detroit Lions after previous stints with the Cardinals and Texans.

Walter Nolen III

A defensive lineman on the Cardinals' roster.

Darius Robinson

A defensive lineman on the Cardinals' roster.

Dante Stills

A defensive lineman on the Cardinals' roster.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to build depth and competition on the defensive line, and these signings help us do that.”

— Steve Keim, General Manager, Arizona Cardinals (arizonasports.com)

What’s next

The Cardinals are still in the market to add more pieces to their defensive line, especially with the potential departure of veteran Calais Campbell.

The takeaway

The Cardinals are making moves to shore up their defensive line, retaining key contributors in Collier and Lopez while looking to add more talent to the position group. These signings demonstrate the team's commitment to improving a defense that struggled at times in 2025.