NFL free agency 2015: Arizona Cardinals lose out on Pernell McPhee, who will join Chicago Bears

The Arizona Cardinals were reportedly interested in Baltimore Ravens linebacker Pernell McPhee. However, if that report was just, they lost out. According to Aaron Wilson of the Baltimore Sun, McPhee will sign a five-year deal with the Chicago Bears worth nearly $40 million, with $16 million in guaranteed money.

McPhee had 7.5 sacks in 2014 for the Ravens and was expected to be highly sought after in the free agent market.

According to Washington, DC reporter Diana Marie Russini, the Cardinals were simply outbid by the Bears.

Our original story suggested the Cardinals would use McPhee perhaps as a replacement for Darnell Dockett, who was released by the team and since signed with the San Francisco 49ers.

The Cardinals have been connected to McPhee and Washington Redskins free agent linebacker Brian Orakpo at the outside linebacker position, as well as Trent Cole. With McPhee now reportedly unavailable, perhaps Arizona will turn up the heat with one or both of those veteran players.