Arizona Adds Veteran Tight End Depth in Trade with Jacksonville
The Jacksonville Jaguars sent tight end Hunter Long to the Arizona Cardinals ahead of the NFL roster cut deadline. Long, a 28-year-old third-round pick from 2021, is expected to provide depth behind two-time Pro Bowler Trey McBride. The trade was reported by NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo.
The Cardinals acquired Hunter Long from Jacksonville just before the league's roster cut deadline. Long, a third-round selection in 2021, has spent his career developing as a blocking-oriented tight end. Arizona's move signals a desire for experienced depth behind Trey McBride, who has earned consecutive Pro Bowl selections.
The trade was first reported by NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo. Jacksonville's decision to part with Long comes as teams finalize their 53-man rosters. For Arizona, adding a veteran tight end provides insurance and versatility in two-tight-end formations, while the Jaguars free up a roster spot ahead of the deadline.
This trade reflects the broader roster-shaping pressure all NFL teams face before the cut deadline. For Cardinals fans, the addition of a veteran like Long could provide stability and mentorship behind a star starter. For Long himself, the move may represent a fresh opportunity for playing time. The transaction's impact is largely limited to team depth charts, though it illustrates how quickly player movement occurs in the NFL's competitive landscape.