Major Setback for Arizona Cardinals as Dennis Gardeck Suffers Season-Ending Injury

Season’s End for Cardinals’ Dennis Gardeck

In a significant blow to the Arizona Cardinals, the team’s outside linebacker Dennis Gardeck has been ruled out for the rest of the season. This unfortunate turn of events occurred as a result of a torn ACL during Monday night’s clash against the Los Angeles Chargers, as confirmed by coach Jonathan Gannon on Tuesday.

“It’s a tough pill to swallow,” Gannon remarked. “Given the dedication and professionalism Gardeck brings to the game, his loss will be felt deeply.”

Gardeck sustained his injury during the third quarter’s punt return, with 10:34 remaining on the clock. He was promptly escorted to the locker room and later reappeared on the sideline in civilian attire.

Impact of Gardeck’s Absence on the Cardinals

Gardeck, who has spent his entire seven-season career with the Cardinals since joining as an undrafted free agent in 2018, is in his last season of a three-year contract signed in 2022. His contributions this season include 20 tackles, 3 sacks, 4 quarterback hits, an interception, and a forced fumble across seven games.

Nick Rallis, the Cardinals’ defensive coordinator, highlighted Gardeck’s versatility. “His roles ranged from being a rusher, a covert defender, to a run defender despite his size. His absence necessitates other players stepping up to fill his shoes. We have confidence in our team’s ability to adapt.”

Gardeck’s injury marks the second loss of an edge rusher for the Cardinals this season due to an ACL tear. B.J. Ojulari also suffered a similar fate in early August. Moreover, Gardeck is the fifth member of the Cardinals’ defensive line to be put on injured reserve this season.

The team now has to rely on Jesse Luketa, rookie Xavier Thomas, Victor Dimukeje, and Julian Okwara to fill the void left by Gardeck. Gannon assured that a strategic plan is being formulated for the outside linebacker position in preparation for the upcoming home game against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.

“We might have to make some adjustments this week,” Gannon admitted. “But we’re confident our team will rise to the challenge.” To date, the Arizona Cardinals have recorded 14 sacks this season, ranking them 21st in the NFL.