TEMPE, Ariz. — The Arizona Cardinals’ defense faced another significant blow with the announcement that linebacker Dennis Gardeck will be sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a torn ACL, as confirmed by coach Jonathan Gannon on Tuesday.

Gardeck sustained his injury early in the second half during a narrow 17-15 victory against the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday night. This marks the third time Gardeck has faced an ACL injury, having previously endured one in 2020 and another earlier in his high school career.

This incident adds to a growing list of season-ending injuries affecting key players on the Arizona defense. Earlier this preseason, linebacker BJ Ojulari suffered a torn knee ligament, and in recent weeks, defensive linemen Justin Jones and Bilal Nichols were ruled out due to separate injuries.

Aged 30, Gardeck had been a steady presence on the field, participating in all seven games this season and leading the team with impressive stats that include three sacks and six tackles for loss. He is now in his seventh year in the NFL, having steadily earned an increased role throughout his career after being an undrafted player from NCAA Division II school, Sioux Falls.

Looking ahead, the Cardinals are anticipating the return of rookie Darius Robinson, who is expected to make his debut soon. The No. 27 overall pick in the draft has been unable to participate this season due to a calf injury.