The Arizona Cardinals offense will get a lift this week with the return of wide receiver Zay Jones to the practice field after serving a five-game suspension for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy.
On Monday, the league lifted the suspension and the Cardinals received a one-game roster exemption, so Jones doesn’t immediately count on the 53-man roster. The exemption expires next Monday (Oct. 14), so to play Sunday in Green Bay, it would have to be lifted by Saturday.
Whenever he becomes officially active, a corresponding move will have to be made on the roster whether it’s a player being released or placed on injured reserve.
The most likely cut victim would be wide receiver Chris Moore, who has played only 27 offensive snaps in five games and doesn’t have a reception. He also hasn’t been on the field for any special teams snaps.
Rookie wide receiver Xavier Weaver has yet to be active for any games, but his potential should keep him on the team.
Jones has been around the team for the last two weeks and been able to attend meetings and work out, but not practice.
Head coach Jonathan Gannon said Monday, “We’ll find the right ways to deploy him. He’s a playmaker for us, he can play all three positions and he makes plays. So, absolutely, I’m excited to get him back.”
Asked if the decision to activate Jones this week will be determined after evaluating him in practice, Gannon said, “I think so. That’s fair to say.”
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