L.J. Collier

Career StatsD

Year	Team	GP	Sacks	Tkl	TFL
Career		67	6.5	77	8.5
2025		4	0.0	6	0.5
2024		17	3.5	29	4.5
2023		1

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Cardinals struck solid value here, landing L.J. Collier on what amounts to a prove-it deal that carries minimal downside with legitimate upside potential. At $2.0M AAV for a rotational pass rusher, this contract sits in the sweet spot where Arizona gets a former first-round pick with NFL experience without breaking the bank — a textbook low-risk, moderate-reward signing that earns a B+ CVI. Collier's production profile as a rotational player aligns perfectly with this salary tier, giving the Cardinals depth along their defensive line without the pressure of needing immediate elite production. The one-year structure with just $0.8M guaranteed is particularly shrewd, allowing Arizona to cut bait easily if things don't work out while maintaining the flexibility to retain him if he develops into a more consistent contributor. This is exactly the type of calculated gamble that smart front offices make — betting on talent and scheme fit at a price point that won't handcuff the roster. The Cardinals get a serviceable rotational piece who could potentially blossom into something more, all while maintaining maximum financial flexibility for 2025.

Performance Analysis

L.J. Collier earns a D grade as a veteran defensive end whose career has been defined by unfulfilled potential. The former first-round pick never lived up to his draft status in Seattle, and his subsequent stops have produced equally modest results. Collier's ability to set the edge against the run provides some value, but the pass-rush production that was expected when he was drafted has never materialized. Arizona is getting a known commodity — a veteran who can fill a role without changing games. His career serves as a reminder that draft position doesn't guarantee NFL success.