Arizona Cardinals sign PJ Mustipher

PJ Mustipher's one-year, $960K signing earns a C Contract Value Index (CVI) — a neutral deal that reflects his replacement-level status and minimal financial commitment from Arizona. At just under $1M in annual average value, this is a low-stakes transaction typical of depth additions on the open market, the kind of move a rebuilding roster makes without cap strain or long-term obligation. The Cardinals are 3-14 and in full reset mode, so a sub-$1M flyer on a reserve-caliber contributor carries virtually no downside risk; he either develops into useful depth or gets released without meaningful salary consequences. The CVI grade reflects exactly what this deal is: a salary-floor play, not a value bargain and not an overpay — just a straightforward, low-cost contract for a player likely to compete for a roster spot or special-teams role. Mustipher's lack of significant current-season production data or established pedigree means the Cardinals are betting on potential development or depth insurance rather than proven playmaking, which is appropriate for the money and timeline involved.