Cardinals Suffer Significant Loss with Dennis Gardeck’s Season-Ending Injury
The Arizona Cardinals have been dealt a major blow with the news that outside linebacker Dennis Gardeck will miss the remainder of the season due to a torn ACL. The injury, which occurred during Monday night’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers, has left the team reeling.
A Tough Pill to Swallow
Coach Jonathan Gannon expressed his disappointment and concern for Gardeck, saying, “It’s a part of the game that just is tough to swallow at times.” Gannon praised Gardeck’s dedication to his craft, his professionalism, and his value as a teammate. The loss of Gardeck will undoubtedly be felt by the team.
Gardeck’s Impressive Season Cut Short
In his seventh season with the Cardinals, Gardeck had been having an impressive year, with 20 tackles, 3 sacks, 4 quarterback hits, an interception, and a forced fumble in just 7 games. His absence will be particularly felt, given that he was in the final season of a three-year contract signed in 2022.
A Growing Injury List
Gardeck is not the first edge rusher to fall victim to an ACL injury this season. B.J. Ojulari suffered a similar injury in early August, and Gardeck is now the fifth member of the Cardinals’ interior defense to go on injured reserve. With Zaven Collins the only regular outside linebacker still healthy, the team will need to rely on other players to fill the void.
A New Plan of Attack
Coach Gannon has stated that the team will figure out a new plan at outside linebacker this week, one that will best help them attack their next opponents, the Miami Dolphins. While the exact details are still being worked out, Gannon is confident that his players will step up and be ready to go.
A Challenging Road Ahead
The Cardinals currently have 14 sacks this season, tied for 21st in the NFL. Without Gardeck, they will need to find new ways to generate pressure and make plays. It won’t be easy, but the team is determined to adapt and overcome.
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