Cardinals trade rumor could lead to deal with Bears, Patriots or Lions

The Arizona Cardinals could be forced to trade one of their starting defenders this offseason.

According to Easton Butler of Packer Report, edge rusher Josh Sweat requested a trade sometime this week. The Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers are showing interest in the veteran.

"Cardinals EDGE Josh Sweat has requested a trade this week, per a source. The Packers and Eagles are both reportedly interested in him. Philly is trying to find another star on the DL, after losing Phillips to Carolina," Butler said.

Sweat had a career year in 2025, posting 12 sacks and 47 quarterback pressures in 17 starts. The 28-year-old has tallied 37.5 sacks over the last four seasons, establishing himself as one of the better pass rushers in the sport.

Philadelphia and Green Bay are already pursuing Sweat, but if the Cardinals do trade him, the Chicago Bears, New England Patriots, and Detroit Lions would also be logical landing spots.

Chicago still needs to add a complementary pass rusher opposite Montez Sweat, so why not add another Sweat to start on the other side of the defensive line?

New England lost K'Lavon Chaisson in free agency to the Washington Commanders, and though they did sign Dre'Mont Jones, trading for Sweat would be the missing piece that elevates the Patriots' defense into an elite unit.

As for Detroit, Aidan Hutchinson could also use some help, and Sweat would take a ton of pressure off the Michigan product. It also looks like Al-Quadin Muhammad may not return to the Lions, so general manager Brad Holmes will likely need to find a replacement anyways.

Sweat had a fantastic Year 1 with the Cardinals, and though Butler is reporting that he demanded a trade, Arizona would be foolish to move him. However, if the Super Bowl champion does get dealt, the Bears, Patriots, and Lions could be possible destinations.

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