The Jaguars and Cardinals just shook hands on a deal, with tight end Hunter Long heading to Arizona. We finally got the full scoop: Jacksonville is sending Long and a 2028 seventh-round pick to the desert, and in return, they’re getting a 2028 sixth-rounder back from the Cardinals. Yeah, you read that right, a pick swap in 2028 for a guy who was just on their roster.
Hunter Long’s Whirlwind Tour Continues
Let’s break down Long’s journey to this point. The dude was a third-round pick for the Dolphins back in 2021. Not long after, he was part of the Jalen Ramsey trade to the Rams ahead of the 2023 season. Then he joined the Jaguars last year. His stats with the Jags were modest, with 12 catches for 85 yards and two touchdowns in nine games. It’s not exactly setting the world on fire, but he put up some numbers. Now, he’s on his way to his fourth team in just a few seasons. Talk about a traveler.
Cardinals’ Tight End Room Gets a Patch
So why did Arizona make this move? It looks like they needed some help at tight end, big time. Trey McBride is their top guy, for sure. But their backup situation is a little dicey. Tip Reiman is currently on the physically unable to perform list. If Reiman stays on PUP through the cut to 53 players, he’d miss at least four games to start the season. That’s a huge hole to fill, and Long offers immediate depth. It’s a classic move to bring in a guy who knows the league and can step in if injuries hit.
This trade might not be the blockbuster that shakes up the entire league, but it’s a critical depth move for the Cardinals as the regular season gets going. Both teams clearly had a plan with this one, even if the compensation feels like a minor detail way out in 2028. It’ll be interesting to see how Long fits into the Cardinals’ offense and if Reiman makes it back quickly.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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