When the Arizona Cardinals signed kicker Chad Ryland to the practice squad on Oct. 2, it was said that Matt Prater had a little knee soreness and there was still the possibility he would kick in that week’s game against the 49ers.
Now, not only has Prater missed the last two games, but he will miss at least another four after being placed on injured Wednesday. Ryland, who has made five of his six field-goal attempts in the two games he was elevated from the practice squad, was signed to the active roster. Prater, who turned 40 in August, is in the final year of his contract.
In addition, another defensive lineman was placed on injured reserve with Bilal Nichols going on the list after suffering a stinger in Sunday’s loss to the Packers. Unless Darius Robinson is activated for Monday night’s game against the Chargers, the Cardinals will be without all three defensive linemen projected to be starters before the season.
But, always remember, all teams have injuries.
Monday, when head coach Jonathan Gannon was asked if any of the injuries the team was “sorting through” might be serious, he said, “Right now that’s what it’s looking like. Bumps and bruises of Week 6, but nothing crazy it looks (like) right now.”
Even if Robinson is able to play this week, he will likely be on a snap count after experiencing discomfort in his calf in his first practice last week after being injured Aug. 22.
Defensive lineman Justin Jones was placed on injured reserve after Week 3 and is out for the season because of a torn triceps suffered against the Lions.
The Cardinals also released tight end Jordan Murray and offensive lineman Austen Pleasants from the practice squad.
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