PHX Reporter

As the roster deadline approaches, Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon acknowledged the urgency of the situation. Reflecting on the process, Gannon expressed a surprising sentiment. "I guess I do enjoy it," he said Monday.

This period is stressful for players and staff, but it allows Gannon and General Manager Monti Ossenfort to finalize a competitive roster. "I think it's a challenge that you have to do well," Gannon stated. He emphasized the importance of defining roles within the 53-man roster and practice squad, expressing confidence in their selections.

Gannon praised Ossenfort for fostering competition within each position group during camp. The Cardinals must trim their roster by 1 p.m. Arizona time on Tuesday. They will also monitor league-wide roster moves, having claimed six players off waivers last year, including cornerback Starling Thomas V and tight end Elijah Higgins.

The staff must consider wide receiver Zay Jones' five-game suspension and Darius Robinson's injury while planning for the 2024 season. Gannon confirmed awareness of Jones' NFL investigation before signing him to a one-year deal but noted depth in the wide receiver room.

Undrafted rookie Xavier Weaver impressed with a 43-yard reception in the preseason finale against the Broncos. Veteran Chris Moore has also shown potential. Since Jones' suspension does not affect the 53-man roster, opportunities may arise for other players.

Robinson, drafted 27th overall, suffered a calf injury at practice last week. "I'm not going to speculate on how much time off or how much time he's going to miss," Gannon said, adding that Robinson would play when ready.

The Cardinals can place Robinson on Injured Reserve (IR) before reducing their roster from 90 to 53 players due to a rule change this year. Reinforcements like Justin Jones, Bilal Nichols, Khyiris Tonga, and re-signed L.J. Collier provide confidence if Robinson's absence extends.

"They've done a good job," Gannon remarked about his defensive line options. He highlighted their versatility as beneficial for both defense and special teams.

With decisions looming, Gannon acknowledged the pressure but also his enjoyment of this critical phase. "Sense of urgency is high as I'm sitting here right now," he said. "For us too there's a starting line now that's becoming very clear in your vision...our urgency is going to pick up."