Ahead of preseason Game 2 in Denver, here’s an early prediction of the Arizona Cardinals’ 53-man roster as they approach initial cutdowns.
As the Arizona Cardinals gear up for their second preseason contest against the Denver Broncos, the team is rapidly approaching the critical phase of roster cuts. NFL teams are mandated to trim their rosters to a maximum of 53 players before the regular season begins, and with preseason games providing valuable evaluation opportunities, coaches are carefully assessing talent, depth, and scheme fit. Based on current developments, training camp reports, and positional battles, here is an early prediction of what the Cardinals’ 53-man roster might look like as they approach these initial cutdowns.
Offensive Line and Skill Positions
Quarterback (3):
Kyler Murray (Starter)
Clayton Tune (Developmental backup)
Jarret Stidham (Veteran backup, providing experience)
With Murray’s return from injury, he remains the undisputed starter. Tune, showing promise and familiarity with the offense, secures the second spot, while Stidham’s veteran presence adds depth and insurance.
Running Backs (4):
James Conner (Lead back)
Keontay Ingram (Versatile backup)
Darrynton Evans (Special teams/quickness)
Emari Demercado (Young, explosive)
The Cardinals likely keep four backs to provide a mix of power, speed, and special teams value. Conner’s leadership and durability are key, with Ingram and Demercado offering versatility.
Wide Receivers (6):
Marquise Brown (Top receiver)
Rondale Moore (Slot threat)
Michael Wilson (Emerging talent)
Greg Dortch (Special teams and reliable option)
Rashaad Penny (Added speed)
Jadon Haselwood (Developmental depth)
The receiver room is competitive, with Wilson’s rise and Dortch’s reliability earning roster spots. Penny adds explosiveness, and the team will prioritize depth and special teams contributions.
Tight Ends (3):
Zach Ertz (Starter)
Trey McBride (Young, promising)
Ricky Seals-Jones (Veteran, special teams/versatility)
Three tight ends make sense given the offense’s personnel needs. McBride’s development is crucial, and Seals-Jones provides depth.
Defensive Line and Edge
Defensive Ends (5):
Marcus Davenport (Pass rusher)
Cameron Thomas (Second-year player)
Leki Fotu (Run defender)
Jonathan Ledbetter (Depth)
Zach Allen (Versatile end/linebacker hybrid)
The defensive end rotation is competitive with Davenport and Thomas likely earning the primary roles. Allen’s hybrid role and Fotu’s run-stopping ability add depth.
Interior Defensive Linemen (4):
J.J. Watt (Retirement/part-time role)
Byron Murphy Jr. (Converted to interior for versatility)
Tanner Vallejo (Versatile backup)
Leki Fotu (Listed above, plays multiple spots)
Watt’s role may be rotational, and Murphy’s versatility allows the team to adjust accordingly. The interior rotation is vital for stout run defense and pressure.
Linebackers (4):
Zaven Collins (Starter)
Troy Andersen (Hybrid LB/DE)
Josh Woods (Special teams and depth)
Ezekiel Turner (Special teams leader)
The linebacker corps is compact but versatile, with Collins and Andersen expected to handle primary duties.
Secondary
Cornerbacks (6):
Marco Wilson (Starter)
Keeanu Neal (Versatile defender)
Emmanuel Forbes (Draft pick, upside)
Bené Benwikere (Depth)
Tariq Woolen (Added from Seahawks in trade, if acquired) or another young corner
Jamal Adams (Hybrid safety/linebacker role, depending on scheme)
The secondary is a key area of focus, with prospects like Forbes earning opportunities. The team likely keeps six corners to handle multiple roles and special teams.
Safeties (4):
Jalen Thompson (Starter)
Budda Baker (Star safety)
Kris Boyd (Depth)
D.J. Swearinger (Veteran presence)
Safety is a strength, with Thompson and Baker anchoring the secondary.
Special Teams
Kicker (1):
Matt Prater (Starter, reliable veteran)
Punter (1):
Pat O’Donnell (Established punter)
Long Snapper (1):
Nick Moore (Specialist)
Returner/Utility (1-2):
Greg Dortch (Primary returner)
Jadon Haselwood or another versatile player for depth.
Notable Battles and Roster Decisions
Several positional battles will influence the final cuts, including:
Quarterback: Clayton Tune’s development vs. veteran backup Stidham. The team may opt for two quarterbacks on the initial roster, with a third possibly signed to the practice squad.
Wide Receiver: Competition for the final spots among Rashaad Penny, Jadon Haselwood, and others. Special teams contributions will tip the scales.
Defensive Line and Edge: The team must decide how many players to keep on the edge versus interior roles, especially with versatile players like Byron Murphy Jr. and Zaven Collins capable of hybrid roles.
Linebacker: With a small but versatile group, the Cardinals will prioritize guys who can contribute on special teams and cover multiple roles.
Secondary: The addition of draft picks and depth players in the secondary will be scrutinized, especially at cornerback.
This early prediction reflects a mix of experienced veterans, promising young players, and special teams contributors. The Cardinals’ roster construction will likely emphasize depth at key positions such as cornerback, wide receiver, and defensive line, while ensuring core starters are solidified.
The coaching staff will watch preseason performances closely, especially in Game 2 against Denver, to determine who stands out in game situations and who can contribute on special teams. Injuries and camp developments may also alter plans, but as of now, this projection provides a solid foundation for what the initial 53-man roster could look like.
In summary, the Arizona Cardinals appear poised to carry a balanced roster that blends youth and experience, with a focus on versatility, special teams, and position depth. As preseason progresses, expect some surprises and adjustments, but this early prediction offers a comprehensive view of their likely roster composition heading into the start of the regular season.
