Cardinals release LB Akeem Davis-Gaither, DL Bilal Nichols, freeing up salary cap space

By Canadian Press on March 5, 2026.

TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) — The Arizona Cardinals released linebacker Akeem Davis-Gaither and defensive lineman Bilal Nichols on Thursday, saving the team more than $10 million in salary cap room.

The Cardinals are in the midst of a roster makeover under new coach Mike LaFleur, who was hired after the Cardinals fired Jonathan Gannon following a 3-14 record last season. The team has already informed two-time Pro Bowl quarterback Kyler Murray that he will be released at the beginning of the new league year next Wednesday.

Davis-Gaither played in all 17 games last season, including 13 starts. The 28-year-old made 117 tackles, including 51 solo tackles after signing an $10 million, two-year deal in 2025.

Nichols played in just 10 games over the past two injury-filled seasons after signing a $21 million, three-year deal in 2024.

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AP NFL: https://apnews.com/NFL

David Brandt, The Associated Press

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