Arizona Cardinals make surprising roster changes with Will Hernandez on IR
The Arizona Cardinals are in the final stages of their preparations for Week 13’s showdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. As part of their roster updates released on Saturday, the team has made significant moves, including placing Will Hernandez on injured reserve and activating Hayden Conner from IR. Additionally, tight end Pharaoh Brown and linebacker Channing Tindall have been elevated from the practice squad to the active roster.
Impact of Will Hernandez’s Injury
The decision to place Hernandez on injured reserve is a significant blow for the Cardinals. Known for his leadership in the locker room and his prowess on the field, Hernandez was a vital upgrade at right guard for Arizona. He has been sidelined due to persistent hip and knee injuries, leaving his return for this season uncertain.
Hernandez’s journey has been tumultuous; he is still recovering from an ACL tear suffered in 2024. After re-signing with the Cardinals this summer, he managed to participate in only seven games before finding himself on IR once more. With Hernandez set to enter free agency and approaching 30 years old, the combination of his injury history and the Cardinals’ future plans may lead them to part ways with a player who has become a beloved figure among fans and teammates.
Isaiah Adams Steps into the Spotlight
With Hernandez’s absence, Isaiah Adams finds himself presented with a massive opportunity. Initially the starting right guard at the beginning of the season, Adams was in the spotlight last year as he rotated in for Hernandez during his ACL recovery. The organization had high hopes for Adams throughout the offseason, but his performance early in the season did not reflect that potential.
Now, with the pressure on, Adams must step up and prove he can handle the starting role once again. His ability to seize this opportunity could not only impact his career trajectory but also shape the Cardinals’ offensive line moving forward.
Strategic Elevations from the Practice Squad
In addition to the Hernandez news, the Cardinals also elevated Pharaoh Brown and Channing Tindall from the practice squad to bolster their roster. Brown, a tight end, brings additional depth and versatility to the offense, while Tindall’s elevation adds much-needed support to the linebacking corps.
These strategic moves come as the team aims to navigate the challenges of the season with a focus on both immediate needs and future development. As the Cardinals prepare for their upcoming match against the Buccaneers, the impact of these roster decisions will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike.
