Cardinals Injury Updates and Roster Moves Ahead of Week 5

As the Arizona Cardinals prepare for Week 5 following their appearance on "Thursday Night Football," they are navigating a mixed bag of injury updates and roster changes. The team enjoyed an extra practice day on Monday, September 29, which provided crucial insights into player conditions.

Injury Report: Key Players Return and Remain Uncertain

One of the most notable developments was the return of cornerback Will Johnson to practice after a two-week absence due to a groin injury. Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon expressed optimism about Johnson’s progress, stating, “He’s taking it day by day, he’s doing a good job. Hopefully, we’ll get him back out there.”

In contrast, running back Trey Benson was absent from practice, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming game. The first injury report of the week will be released on Wednesday, making Benson’s status a focal point for fans and analysts alike. Gannon mentioned, “Just taking it day by day,” indicating that the team is closely monitoring Benson’s condition.

If Benson is unable to play, the Cardinals may rely on Michael Carter as their lead back, a role he successfully filled in previous games last season.

Roster Moves: Michael Carter Joins Active Roster

In a strategic move, the Cardinals signed running back Michael Carter from the practice squad to fill the lone vacancy on their 53-man roster. Carter has been with the team since 2023 and has shown promise, averaging 4.8 yards per carry. His experience will be invaluable, especially if Benson is sidelined.

To fill Carter’s spot on the practice squad, the Cardinals acquired running back D’Ernest Johnson, who brings six seasons of experience with the Cleveland Browns and Jacksonville Jaguars. Johnson has averaged 4.6 yards per carry throughout his career, adding depth to the team’s running back lineup.

Defensive Reinforcements: Bilal Nichols Returns to Practice

The Cardinals also opened the practice window for defensive tackle Bilal Nichols, who has been on the injured reserve list since last October due to a neck injury. Nichols now has a 21-day window to practice without being added to the active roster. Gannon emphasized Nichols’ importance, stating, “He’s a good football player. Can play a couple different hats for us. So it’s good to have him back out there today.”

However, the team did not open the practice window for other eligible players, including defensive tackle Walter Nolen and edge rusher B.J. Ojulari, both dealing with injuries. Gannon remains unconcerned about Nolen’s status, responding simply, “No,” when asked about his condition.

Gannon’s Decision-Making: The 2-Point Conversion Dilemma

In a recent game against the Seahawks, the Cardinals opted to kick an extra point after scoring a touchdown, rather than attempting a 2-point conversion. This decision sparked discussions about modern analytics, as going for two could have provided a better chance to win. Gannon acknowledged the debate, stating, “We talk about it. That’s a good point. It was a discussion. I’ve went back and forth.”

Ultimately, while the decision did not impact the outcome of the game, it highlights the strategic considerations that coaches face in high-pressure situations.

Conclusion

As the Cardinals gear up for their next matchup, the focus will be on player health and strategic decisions. With key players returning and new signings bolstering the roster, fans will be eager to see how these developments impact the team’s performance in Week 5. The blend of optimism and uncertainty surrounding injuries and roster moves adds an intriguing layer to the Cardinals’ upcoming game strategy.