The Arizona Cardinals have strengthened their defensive line by activating veteran Bilal Nichols from the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. Nichols, who has not played since Week 6 of the 2024 season due to a neck injury, is expected to be available for Sunday’s game against the Tennessee Titans. The team had an open roster spot, which allowed Nichols to rejoin the active lineup.
Nichols was signed as a free agent prior to the 2024 season and recorded 10 tackles, including one tackle for loss, in six games last year.
The Cardinals continue to face challenges with injuries on defense. Cornerback Max Melton was added to the injury report on Saturday and is listed as questionable for Sunday’s game after sustaining a hamstring injury during practice. Rookie cornerback Denzel Burke was also added to the report on Friday with a knee injury and remains questionable. Will Johnson, another cornerback who has missed two games because of a groin injury, is hopeful for a return but his status is also uncertain.
In addition to Nichols’ activation, the team elevated defensive lineman Zach Carter and offensive lineman Nick Leverett from the practice squad ahead of Sunday’s matchup. These moves come as defensive lineman Darius Robinson has been ruled out with a pectoral injury. Justin Jones remains on injured reserve while Walter Nolen III continues on PUP status and has yet to play this season.
