The Arizona Cardinals are benefiting from a performance-based pay system that rewards players based on their contributions on the field. Cornerback Star Thomas V leads the team with a substantial bonus of $797,669.80, attributed to his 77.3% snap count last season. Despite none of their players breaking into the NFL's top 25 for performance pay, several Cardinals enjoyed significant payouts. The team's total performance-based pay this year amounted to $14.128 million, part of a broader league pool of $452.096 million since the program's inception in 2002.

Notably, players with lower salaries and higher playing time percentages gleaned the most from this system. Alongside Thomas, wide receiver Michael Wilson and cornerback Garrett Williams also received hefty bonuses, highlighting the importance of snap counts in determining eligibility for these payouts. The performance pay structure underscores the value placed on player contributions that go beyond just base salaries, providing motivation for athletes to perform at their best week after week.

Sophia Wilson, the talented forward for Portland Thorns FC and U.S. women's national team striker, has announced her pregnancy with husband Michael Wilson, an Arizona Cardinals wide receiver. This news follows their recent marriage, marking a significant new chapter in their lives. The couple shared their joy through social media, with Sophia's club team, the Thorns, expressing pride and support as she embarks on this journey into motherhood.

At just 24, Wilson has made a remarkable impact in the NWSL. She was the first teenager drafted into the league and has since achieved several milestones, including MVP honors and leading the league in goals. Currently in the last year of her contract, Wilson's future with the Thorns is uncertain with her potential player option for 2026 looming. The Thorns face a challenging 2025 season with multiple injuries impacting squad depth, making Wilson's presence even more vital.

The Arizona Cardinals are facing a significant challenge as they look to bolster their wide receiver corps ahead of the 2025 NFL season. With Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson solidifying the top two spots, the depth chart quickly thins out, leaving the team in search of additional talent. The upcoming NFL Draft is viewed as an opportunity to strengthen this position, particularly with a promising wide receiver class. Emeka Egbuka from Ohio State and Matthew Golden from Texas are among the top prospects to watch, both capable of complementing the existing talent. Additionally, mid-round options like Tre Harris from Ole Miss and Xavier Restrepo from Miami may provide immediate contributions. The Cardinals will need to be strategic, focusing on defense in free agency while maximizing their draft capital to secure the future of their passing game.

The Arizona Cardinals faced a disappointing 36-30 overtime loss to the Carolina Panthers, resulting in their elimination from playoff contention. Despite scoring 30 points, the offense struggled significantly after running back James Conner's injury, with quarterback Kyler Murray's performance faltering in critical moments.

Defensively, the Cardinals allowed 380 total yards and failed to contain the Panthers' rushing attack, which gained 243 yards. The team's undisciplined play led to 11 penalties, further compounding their issues on the field.