What happened to BJ Ojulari? Cardinals HC Jonathan Gannon provides details on OLB's injury

The Arizona Cardinals drafted BJ Ojulari with the 41st overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. The 22-year-old defensive end played all 17 games during his rookie season and left a good impression.

The Cardinals were looking forward to a big season with Kyler Murray fully healthy, but, unfortunately, they were dealt a significant blow. Head coach Jonathan Gannon has confirmed that Ojulari will miss the entirety of the upcoming NFL season due to a knee injury. He said:

"BJ is gonna miss the year with a knee. He'll have to have surgery. Obviously, feel bad for him for the team. He did a lot of work this offseason and was going to be a big part of what we do but he'll come back stronger ready to go better than ever next year."

"You don't have to say much to NFL football players they know it's kinda the known unknown. And obviously, they feel bad for their teammate. And a lot of those guys have been through it. So he'll lean on some of those guys, but it's part of the business. But they got to pick up their heads, the sun's out now, and we got to go to work." added Gannon

Considering their roster, the Cardinals played well last season and finished 4-13. They drafted Marvin Harrison Jr. and Darius Robinson in the first round of this year's draft to improve their roster. Ojulari will be a big loss for the franchise, but it is an opportunity for other players to step up and make their mark.

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BJ Ojulari injury: A look at Cardinals' depth chart

BJ Ojulari: Arizona Cardinals v Philadelphia Eagles - Source: Getty

BJ Ojulari had 40 total tackles, 4.0 sacks, one pass deflection, and five tackles for loss in 17 games during his rookie season for the Cardinals. Zaven Collins and Dante Stills will start at the left and right defensive end positions in his absence.

Moreover, rookie Darius Robinson will have more chances to leave a good impression, and Jonathan Gannon could bring out the best of him.

Ojulari's injury could have a big effect on the Cardinals' defense. However, the Cardinals made Gannon their head coach due to his success as the Eagles' defensive coordinator, and he should be able to overcome the difficult situation with the help of veterans like Budda Baker, Kyzir White, and Sean Murphy-Bunting.

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