Isaiah Adams Looks to Secure Guard Spot with Cardinals

Adams’ NFL Journey and 2025 Role

Isaiah Adams arrives at his third training camp with the Arizona Cardinals, having progressed from a third‑round pick in 2024 to a player who has seen mixed time at guard. He opened 2025 as the starter at right guard before being supplanted by Will Hernandez; after Hernandez suffered a setback, Adams reclaimed the position and ultimately started 11 games, snapping up 763 offensive snaps. His on‑again, off‑again status reflects the Cardinals’ fluid depth chart and the constant evaluation that defines training camp.

The Cardinals report to camp on July 22, kicking off a period where every roster spot is up for grabs. Adams’ experience at both guard spots—and his brief stint at tackle in college—gives him versatility that many depth players lack. That adaptability becomes especially valuable when the team is shaping its offensive line philosophy for the upcoming season.

Contract Details and Cap Impact

Adams is in Year 3 of a four‑year rookie contract that totals just under $6 million. He is slated to earn more than $1.3 million this year, with a salary‑cap hit exceeding $1.6 million. This compensation reflects his draft position and the Cardinals’ investment in a player who has already logged significant snaps at the next level.

From a roster management perspective, Adams’ cap figure sits comfortably within the team’s guiding principles, allowing the organization to maintain flexibility while still rewarding a player who has demonstrated the ability to step into a starting role when needed. His contract status also means the Cardinals can monitor his performance without the pressure of retaining a high‑priced veteran.

Roster Battle and Future Outlook

Adams’ job security hangs in the balance as rookie second‑round pick Chase Bisontis looms as a potential successor at guard. The two have been lined up together in spring practices, giving coaches a chance to compare their footwork and pass‑protection skills. While Bisontis is expected to eventually command a starting spot, Adams’ ability to play both left and right guard—and his college experience at tackle—keeps him in contention for at least a depth role.

If Bisontis proves ready for the starting spot early, Adams could still factor in as a backup or even a tackle specialist, a niche that has become increasingly important for modern offensive lines. He will likely make the final roster in some capacity, providing the Cardinals with insurance as they evaluate the entire line’s cohesion.

The competition between Adams and Bisontis will be one of the camp storylines to watch, with the winner shaping the Cardinals’ guard depth entering the regular season. Fans can expect to see multiple combinations during preseason drills as Arizona fine‑tunes its offensive line before the season’s first snap.