Cardinals Preseason Report: Iowa's Karson Sharar Shines in Ugly Loss to Cowboys

The Arizona Cardinals wrapped up another preseason contest on Saturday, falling 34-13 to the Dallas Cowboys at State Farm Stadium. With most starters resting ahead of final roster cuts, the game offered a final audition for players fighting for spots on the 53-man roster.

For Iowa football fans, the standout storyline came from former Hawkeye Karson Sharar, who continues to make a compelling case for a roster spot through his special teams play.

Iowa's Sharar Makes His Case

Sharar, a late-round pick who logged over 500 special teams snaps at Iowa, set the tone on the opening kickoff and delivered the kind of playmaking performance that typically secures a Day 3 pick a job in the NFL.

His ability to impact games in the third phase of football gives him a realistic path to making Arizona's final roster, despite depth at the inside linebacker position.

Leota Continues to Rise

Outside linebacker Eku Leota was arguably the Cardinals' most productive defender on the night, registering a sack, two tackles for loss, and five total tackles, the second-highest mark on the team.

Head coach Mike LaFleur praised Leota's performance after the game.

I thought from my eyes, I have to go back and watch this tape obviously, but I thought from my eyes this was the most productive he was through the three preseason games, LaFleur said.

Leota has steadily climbed the depth chart throughout training camp and appears to have earned a roster spot.

First-Round Pick Fails to Impress

Defensive lineman Darius Robinson, a former first-round selection, logged just one tackle in limited action. LaFleur suggested the team wanted to see Robinson in a heightened competitive environment, but the lack of production in live action remains a concern.

Knight's Rest Signals Confidence

Running back Bam Knight did not suit up, a notable development for a player on the roster bubble. LaFleur indicated the team wanted to protect Knight, which suggests the coaching staff views him favorably heading into final cuts.

Ojulari Struggles to Make an Impact

Outside linebacker BJ Ojulari, who has been working to bounce back from an injury that cost him the 2024 season, recorded three tackles but failed to reach the quarterback. His extended playing time against third-stringers without meaningful production is not a good sign for his roster chances.

Fehoko Provides Bright Spot at Receiver

Simi Fehoko led the Cardinals with 42 receiving yards on two catches and also contributed on special teams. His performance stood out in a competitive race for the final receiver spot.

Penalties Remain a Problem

Arizona committed eight penalties for 63 yards, continuing a preseason trend of pre-snap miscues. LaFleur did not mince words about the issue.

It's sometimes a lack of focus. Sometimes it's just other guys being in there that haven't been put in these situations. There are no excuses for it, LaFleur said. If we have one, that's one too many.

What's Next for the Cardinals?

The Cardinals close out their preseason schedule next week before final roster cuts. For players like Sharar and Leota, the remaining practices and game will determine whether they secure a spot on the 53-man roster.