It’s been a big news day for the Cardinals and their edge rushers. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that Zaven Collins is signing a two-year extension. The initial report on the contract figures is Collins will be guaranteed $11.25 million, with a max total of $14 million.

It’s worth noting the two sides have agreed to an extension after the Cardinals declined Collins’ fifth year option. The former first rounder has developed into a solid contributor on the defensive side of the ball after bouncing around the front seven. He has settled more into an edge role in the first year under head coach Jonathan Gannon, proving to be a solid all-around player in both run defense and as a pass rusher.

In 2023, Collins started all 17 games at linebacker, recording 41 tackles, six for loss, and 3.5 sacks. With his second year in the system, it’s possible he could become the X-factor in the defense. This recent extension reflects as such, with an average annual value of $7 million per season with a good chunk of it guaranteed upfront.

The news comes on the same day that BJ Ojulari’s injury from Friday’s practice was reported to be a torn ACL in his left knee. With Ojulari out for the season, they’ll need Collins to step up and provide some big plays on the defensive side of the ball.

When the exact contract figures come out, we’ll have them here on Burn City Sports.