In a stunning move to bolster their defensive roster, the Arizona Cardinals have signed two veteran pass rushers, Yannick Ngakoue and Chase Young, to a deal worth $40 million, according to sources from Bleacher Report. This significant investment underscores the Cardinals’ commitment to strengthening their defense as they aim to compete in a highly competitive NFC West.
The Cardinals have long been searching for a way to enhance their pass rush, which has been a point of concern over the past few seasons. With the acquisition of Ngakoue and Young, the team addresses this critical need with two proven players known for their ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks and create havoc in the backfield.
Yannick Ngakoue, a seasoned pass rusher with extensive experience in the NFL, brings a wealth of talent and consistency to the Cardinals. Over the years, Ngakoue has established himself as one of the league’s premier edge rushers, known for his quick first step, relentless motor, and knack for forcing turnovers. His ability to pressure the quarterback has been a hallmark of his career, and he has consistently produced sacks and forced fumbles throughout his time with various teams, including the Jacksonville Jaguars, Minnesota Vikings, Baltimore Ravens, Las Vegas Raiders, and most recently, the Chicago Bears.
Ngakoue’s career statistics speak for themselves. With over 65 career sacks and numerous forced fumbles, he has been a disruptive force on every team he has played for. His ability to consistently get to the quarterback is precisely what the Cardinals need to enhance their pass rush and apply pressure on opposing offenses.
Joining Ngakoue is Chase Young, one of the most highly regarded young talents in the NFL. Young was the second overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Washington Commanders and quickly made an impact with his explosive athleticism and power. In his rookie season, Young earned NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year honors, showcasing his potential to become one of the league’s elite defenders.
Despite battling injuries in his young career, Young has shown flashes of brilliance, and his upside remains incredibly high. The Cardinals are betting on his ability to bounce back and regain the form that made him such a coveted prospect coming out of college. If Young can stay healthy and perform at his peak, he has the potential to become a game-changing force on the Cardinals’ defensive line.
The $40 million deal for Ngakoue and Young reflects the Cardinals’ determination to invest in their defense and build a roster capable of competing for a playoff spot. While the specifics of the contracts have not been fully disclosed, it’s clear that both players will be expected to contribute immediately and play significant roles in the team’s defensive scheme.
The Cardinals’ front office, led by General Manager Monti Ossenfort, has been aggressive in addressing the team’s weaknesses this offseason. The addition of Ngakoue and Young is a clear indication that the organization is committed to surrounding star quarterback Kyler Murray with a complementary defense that can help the team compete at the highest level.
The arrival of Ngakoue and Young instantly elevates the Cardinals’ pass-rushing unit, which has been a focal point of concern for head coach Jonathan Gannon. Last season, the Cardinals struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, resulting in a defense that was often exploited in key situations. By adding two proven pass rushers, the team hopes to create a more formidable front seven that can disrupt the timing and rhythm of opposing offenses.
Ngakoue’s experience and leadership will be invaluable to a relatively young Cardinals defense. He brings a veteran presence to the locker room and can mentor younger players, helping them develop their skills and understanding of the game. Meanwhile, Young’s potential to become a dominant force on the edge adds an element of excitement and unpredictability to the defense.
As the Cardinals prepare for the upcoming season, the addition of Ngakoue and Young sends a clear message to the rest of the NFL: Arizona is serious about competing in 2024. With the NFC West featuring some of the league’s most potent offenses, the Cardinals’ bolstered pass rush will be crucial in their quest to contend for a playoff berth.
The success of this move will ultimately be measured by how well Ngakoue and Young perform on the field. If both players can stay healthy and produce at a high level, the Cardinals could find themselves with one of the most formidable defensive lines in the league.
For now, the Cardinals and their fans can take solace in knowing that the team has taken a significant step toward improving their defense and positioning themselves for success in the upcoming season. The $40 million investment in Yannick Ngakoue and Chase Young could be the key to unlocking the team’s full potential and making a deep playoff run.