Arizona just dropped their 2026 captains list, and it is a tight group of five players wearing the “C” this season. Quarterback Jacoby Brissett, center Hjalte Froholdt, safety Budda Baker, linebacker Mack Wilson, and long snapper Casey Kreiter are the guys getting the honor. Every one of them absolutely deserves it, no doubt about that. But in a year where we have seen multiple teams across the league name up to ten players as season captains, you have to wonder: did the Cardinals leave some deserving leaders off that list due to limited spots? This is early season, and leadership always sets the tone.
Elite Leaders Step Up, But Who Else Was Knocking?
Okay, let us talk about these five. Jacoby Brissett, a veteran QB, brings that steady hand and a ton of experience to the huddle. He is the guy you want running the offense. Then you have Hjalte Froholdt anchoring the offensive line from the center position. That is a critical role, and his leadership there is huge. Budda Baker, man, what can you say? He is a game wrecker, a defensive force, and his energy is infectious. Mack Wilson, the linebacker, brings that grit and intensity to the middle of the defense. And let us not forget Casey Kreiter, the long snapper. That role is often overlooked, but consistency and leadership in special teams are absolutely vital. These guys were picked for a reason, and it is clear they all embody what the Cardinals want in a captain. They are impact players and vocal leaders, and it is awesome to see them recognized.
Was Arizona’s Captain Crop Too Small?
So, we know these five are deserving. That is not the question. The real talk here is about the *number*. We have seen reports of other NFL teams rolling out as many as ten captains this season. Ten! That is a big crew, spreading leadership throughout the roster. The Cardinals, on the other hand, stuck with five. Is that a strategic choice to focus leadership in a smaller, more exclusive group? Or does it mean that some other seriously deserving players, guys who also give it their all every single snap, might have been passed over simply because there was not enough room? It is a tough spot for coaches. You want to honor your leaders, but if you limit the number, you are making some hard decisions. This early in the season, establishing a clear leadership structure is paramount, and keeping it tight could be a bold move or a missed opportunity to empower more guys. It makes you wonder what their philosophy is.
Around the League Buzz
Quick hits from around the league: running back Bam Knight’s playing style is getting high praise from Mike LaFleur. Fans also got good news about Jeremiyah Love’s availability for Week One. Over in New England, Christian Gonzalez just agreed to a new four-year extension with the Patriots. Plus, there is already talk about 2026 NFL award winners and even four quarterbacks showing up in 2027 mock drafts. But honestly, the captain announcement for Arizona? That is the talk of the town. What does it tell us about their early season strategy and who they trust to lead?
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Revenge of the Birds.
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