Jon Gaines II

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Cardinals locked up Jon Gaines II to a four-year, $4.6M extension that earns a D+ CVI — a deal that looks like a modest overpay for an unproven interior lineman. At $1.1M annually with minimal guaranteed money ($0.7M), Arizona is betting on developmental upside rather than established production, but even by backup guard standards, this feels like they could have secured similar talent for less. Gaines II enters this deal without a proven track record of starter-level play, making the four-year commitment puzzling when most teams would opt for shorter-term, prove-it contracts for players in this tier. The low guarantee does provide some protection if he flames out, but the Cardinals are still committing meaningful roster and cap resources to a player who hasn't demonstrated he can consistently perform at an NFL level. This contract reflects Arizona's willingness to invest early in young offensive linemen, though the value proposition suggests they may have jumped the gun on rewarding potential over production.

Performance Analysis

Jon Gaines II earns an F grade as a guard fighting for roster relevance with the Cardinals. Arizona's offensive line has been a revolving door, and Gaines hasn't done enough to secure a permanent spot in the rotation. His limited game action hasn't produced the kind of performance that would force coaches to give him more snaps. The Cardinals need to find answers along the interior line, and Gaines is one of several young players competing for those opportunities without separating from the pack. His best bet is a strong preseason showing to earn a spot.