The Arizona Cardinals announced a pair of player signings that have been expected to happen. Linebackers Kylie Fitts and Dennis Gardeck have signed their one-year tenders.
They did not have much of a choice. Fitts was an exclusive rights free agent, so the only team he could sign with was the Cardinals if they tendered him a qualifying offer. They did, meaning if he wanted to play in the NFL this year, it would have to be for the Cardinals.
Fitts had limited playing time but had six tackles and a quarterback hit. He also added three special teams tackles and a forced fumble.
Gardeck was a restricted free agent was given a second-round tender. He could have sought offers from other teams but the Cardinals could match the contract offer and, if they chose not to, the team would give up a second-round pick.
He emerged as a pass rusher last season in very limited playing time. He had seven sacks in 93 defensive snaps. He also added seven special teams tackles.
He tore his ACL late in the season.
Gardeck will most certainly be on the roster again this season, although he will likely begin the year on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.
Fitts will have to compete for a roster spot.
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