Arizona Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill has traditionally been heavily involved in the day-to-day operations of the team. He meets regularly with the general manager and head coach to discuss progress, and plays a significant role in draft evaluations and contract signings, particularly with high-profile free agents and top draft picks.
However, when it came time for top draft pick receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. to sign his contract this week, Bidwill was noticeably absent. Instead, it was general manager Monti Ossenfort who sat down with Harrison for the signing. This departure from Bidwill’s usual involvement has raised questions about whether he is stepping back from football operations and allowing Ossenfort to take the lead or if it was simply a matter of timing due to other commitments.
The NFL spring league meeting in Nashville took place from May 20-22, which may have been why Bidwill was unable to attend Harrison’s contract signing on the 23rd. It seems that Bidwill may be shifting some of his responsibilities to the front office, which could signal a significant shift in the team’s management style. As a longtime figure in the organization, Bidwill’s decision to step back from the spotlight suggests a dedication to improving both the team and the organization as a whole. Whether this change is temporary or permanent remains unclear but will be interesting to observe how it impacts the team moving forward. Fans can stay updated on all things Cardinals with Rise Up, See Red podcast by Cards Wire’s Jess Root, available on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
