TEMPE, Ariz. -- Linebacker Josh Sweat walked into the Arizona Cardinals' facility to find two familiar faces waiting for him: Coach Jonathan Gannon and defensive coordinator Nick Rallis. This reunion marks a significant moment for Sweat, who previously worked with both coaches during his tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles.

A Familiar Scheme

Under Gannon and Rallis in Philadelphia, Sweat experienced the best two-year stretch of his seven-year career, recording 18.5 sacks. The defensive scheme in Arizona is "pretty much the same" as what he excelled in with the Eagles, making his transition smoother.

"The scheme and stuff, you can play fast in it," Sweat said. "So, picking up on it, it is pretty easy. It ain't going to take me long at all."

Leadership Role

Sweat, now 28, has embraced a leadership role within the Cardinals' defense. He believes his experience and the freedom Gannon and Rallis provide within the defensive structure will help him thrive.

"If you have to get something done and you can get it done playing with a different technique, or a different alignment or a different eye progression than what I say to do, OK," Gannon said. "So, now we give them a couple of different tools and [they] pick the best one."

Mentorship and Growth

Sweat plans to lead by example and use his experience to mentor younger players. He credits his early days in Philadelphia, where he was mentored by veterans, for shaping his leadership style.

"I think talking to players, there's a different type of learning with that that comes from that organically, truthfully," Gannon said. "So, I always say he can kind of be the translator."

High Expectations

With a four-year, $76.4 million deal (including $41 million guaranteed), Sweat is the centerpiece of Arizona's defensive overhaul. Rallis is excited to reunite with Sweat, believing he can still dominate against the run and set the edge effectively.

"I'm excited to link back up with him," Rallis said. "He's a guy who can make a significant impact on our defense."

Sweat is ready to take on the challenge, both on and off the field, as he aims to become a vocal leader in the Cardinals' locker room and a key player in their defensive success.