Melissa Gaspard Arizona Cardinals Vice President, Executive Operations | Arizona Cardinals Website
Melissa Gaspard Arizona Cardinals Vice President, Executive Operations | Arizona Cardinals Website
The Arizona Cardinals have placed defensive lineman Bilal Nichols and veteran kicker Matt Prater on Injured Reserve following their recent game against the Green Bay Packers. Nichols, who suffered a stinger for the second consecutive game, is reportedly out for the season according to ESPN. Prater has been dealing with a left knee issue that caused him to miss the last two games.
Both players are eligible to return after missing a minimum of four games. Head Coach Jonathan Gannon is expected to address the situation in his next media appearance on Thursday.
In response to Prater's absence, the Cardinals have promoted Chad Ryland from the practice squad. Ryland has successfully filled in as kicker for the past two games, making 5-of-6 field goals and both extra-point attempts, including a decisive kick in San Francisco.
Prater had been consistent before his injury, converting all six field goal attempts and ten extra points over four games. He also surpassed 1,800 career points this season and is set to become a free agent at its conclusion.
With these roster changes, an open spot remains on the Cardinals' 53-man roster. Defensive lineman Darius Robinson and offensive lineman Christian Jones are both eligible to return from IR when deemed fit by the team.
Additionally, tight end Jordan Murray and offensive lineman Austen Pleasants were released from the practice squad. The loss of Nichols adds further strain to an already impacted defensive line, as fellow veteran Justin Jones is also on IR due to a triceps injury.