The Arizona Cardinals’ 2024 season officially ended with a locker room cleanout on Monday, marking the beginning of the offseason. As players packed up their lockers, signed jerseys, and filled trash bags, the mood was a mix of reflection and determination. For many, the day felt like the last day of school, a time to say goodbyes while looking forward to the next chapter.
Veteran left tackle Kelvin Beachum, who wrapped up his 13th NFL season, acknowledged the realities of the league, where roster turnover is inevitable. With free agency looming, Beachum, 35, admitted that while he loves the game, the next few weeks will determine if he continues his career with the Cardinals or elsewhere. “I love playing this game,” Beachum said, “but we’ll see what transpires over the next couple of weeks.”
For second-year defensive lineman Dante Stills, the cleanout process served as a reminder of the business side of the NFL. “It kind of shocked me a little bit last year,” Stills said. “But I hope most of the guys can be here for the long run.” While the day marked the end of the season, Stills and his teammates were already thinking ahead, determined to train hard during the offseason to avoid repeating past mistakes.
Head Coach Jonathan Gannon spent Monday meeting with players individually, giving each feedback on areas for improvement. These exit meetings are key as the team prepares for the 2025 season. “We have to win more games than we did this year,” Gannon said. “It starts with me improving.” He emphasized that the path forward involves taking responsibility, improving, and pushing beyond the external narratives that cloud the team’s progress.
While the Cardinals may not be heading to the playoffs, the cleanout marked the beginning of a focused effort to rebuild for the future, with every player and coach committed to a better season ahead.
