Cardinals bring back four players on new contracts

PHOENIX (KYMA) - The Arizona Cardinals had a season to forget, but there were still some players worth retaining. Several of them will remain in Arizona after agreeing to new or revised contracts.

Most notably, running back James Conner will return for the upcoming season after restructuring his contract.

Although Conner was not scheduled to become a free agent, he had been considered a possible salary-cap casualty. The revised agreement allows the veteran running back to stay with the Cardinals as they look to rebound next season.

Cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting also restructured his deal with the team. Murphy-Bunting missed the entirety of last season due to a knee injury but had been a regular starter previously, appearing in 15 games during the 2024 campaign.

The team has not yet released full financial details for either restructuring.

Among players approaching free agency, kicker Chad Ryland has agreed to a one-year contract to remain in Arizona. Ryland converted 25 of his 33 field-goal attempts last season, providing stability for the Cardinals' special teams unit.

The team also reached a one-year agreement with punter Blake Gillikin worth $2.65 million. Gillikin appeared in only five games for Arizona last season, but his overall track record remains notable.

Across two seasons with the New Orleans Saints and three with the Cardinals, he holds the NFL career record for yards per punt at 48.5, according to Pro Football Reference.