The Arizona Cardinals have completed several roster moves to finalize their initial 53-man roster ahead of the upcoming season. Running back James Conner has been placed on Injured Reserve/designated to return, which means he will be sidelined for at least the first four games as he recovers from an ankle injury sustained last season.
In addition to Conner, the team released linebacker BJ Ojulari, a second-round pick in 2023, due to difficulties recovering from a knee injury incurred during training camp. Eku Leota, who performed well during camp, has secured a spot on the roster.
Veteran cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting was also released, indicating that slot starter Garrett Williams is close to returning after being activated from the PUP list following an Achilles injury. The Cardinals have opted to keep three quarterbacks for the first time in several years: Jacoby Brissett, Gardner Minshew II, and Carson Beck.
The team retained seven wide receivers, including return specialist Devin Duvernay and rookies Jalen Brooks, Simi Fehoko, and Reggie Virgil. Rookie safety Wydett Williams Jr. also made the roster, dismissing any speculation about him returning to college football.
The current roster is expected to change before the season opener against the Los Angeles Chargers on September 13. The Cardinals are third in the waiver claim order and may add players through this process. Waiver claims are anticipated to clear by Monday afternoon, allowing the team to form a 16-man practice squad by potentially re-signing some of the released players.
