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Arizona Needs More Than Roster Depth to Fix 1-4 Start Against Rams
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- Arizona Needs More Than Roster Depth to Fix 1-4 Start Against Rams
The Arizona Cardinals are adding depth to their secondary and backfield before Sunday's matchup with the Los Angeles Rams. Arizona activated safety Kitan Crawford from injured reserve Saturday and elevated running back Evan Hull and safety Jerrick Reed II from the practice squad.
Crawford's return follows an ankle injury suffered in the season opener against the Los Angeles Chargers. The safety went on injured reserve in September, then had his 21-day practice window opened earlier this week. After three practices, Arizona cleared him.
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The move comes at a crucial time for the secondary. Safety Andrew Wingard is out with a knee injury, while rookie Wydett Williams Jr. is unavailable after a concussion. Pro Bowl safety Budda Baker is questionable with a groin issue, making Crawford's return timely.
Hull and Reed were elevated for Sunday's game, and both are set to make their regular-season debut with Arizona. Hull provides another running back option while rookie Jeremiyah Love is sidelined by an ankle injury. Reed adds depth at safety as the Cardinals manage several absences in the defensive backfield.
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Crawford played in the season opener before his injury, logging seven defensive snaps and 14 on special teams. His return gives Arizona an option as the secondary prepares for a Rams offense that can challenge coverage.
Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Head coach Mike LaFleur said Friday that Crawford had looked good in practice, while noting that rust can be a concern after time away. Crawford now has a chance to turn that progress into game-day contributions.
Arizona enters the matchup at 1-4 and is looking to end a four-game losing streak. The moves do not erase the team's injury concerns, but they provide added options at two positions where depth has been tested. Hull, Reed and Crawford could all be called upon if Sunday's game demands it.
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This story was originally published by Athlon on Oct 18, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
