Arizona Cardinals Activate Josh Sweat While Managing Multiple Roster Injuries Ahead of Season

Sweat began training camp on the active/PUP list due to a knee injury and did not participate in voluntary offseason work; he was activated this week to help the Cardinals' defense ahead of their regular-season schedule.
Trey Benson, a 2024 third-round pick, was waived/injured with a knee issue after appearing in 17 games for Arizona, totaling 92 carries for 451 rushing yards.
Xavier Weaver was placed on injured reserve after suffering a hamstring injury in the preseason game against the Cowboys, further depleting the Cardinals' receiving corps.
The activation and other moves come as Arizona heads toward a Week 1 matchup with the Chargers, with Sweat expected to ramp up ahead of the Sept. 13 season opener.
The Arizona Cardinals activated edge rusher Josh Sweat from the physically unable to perform list, clearing him to play ahead of the regular season after rehabbing a knee injury WTOP. Sweat led the team with 12 sacks last season and returns as a key defensive piece for Arizona's Week 1 matchup against the Chargers on September 13 Heavy. The move came alongside a wave of roster changes, including the waive/injury of running back Trey Benson, a 2024 third-round pick who struggled with injuries throughout his time with the team Clutch Points.
Josh Sweat was placed on the PUP list at the start of training camp and did not participate in offseason workouts WTOP. The defensive end missed time recovering from his knee injury but has now completed his rehab. Sweat's return is critical — he recorded 12 sacks in the previous season, making him one of the team's most productive defenders Heavy.
The Cardinals plan a gradual ramp-up for Sweat before the season opener WTOP. He won't see full action immediately but will build his conditioning over the next week. Having him healthy for Week 1 gives Arizona a stronger edge rush as they prepare to face Los Angeles.
Running back Trey Benson, selected in the third round of the 2024 draft, was waived/injured due to a knee problem Clutch Points. Benson appeared in 17 games for Arizona but produced just 92 rushing yards on 451 carries — averaging less than 1 yard per attempt 4for4. Injuries have dogged his stint with the team since being drafted.
The Cardinals needed to clear roster space for other roster moves, and Benson's injury and disappointing output made him expendable Clutch Points. His release opens opportunities for other running backs on the depth chart during the final preseason week.
Multiple defensive backs suffered concussions in Arizona's preseason matchup against Dallas Heavy. Safeties Rabbit Taylor-Demerson and Wydett Williams, along with cornerback Kalen King, were all diagnosed with head injuries. The injuries forced the team to quickly address depth in the secondary.
In response, the Cardinals signed safeties Hudson Clark and Devyn Bobby to strengthen the roster WTOP. Wide receiver Xavier Weaver was placed on injured reserve after suffering a hamstring injury against the Cowboys. The team also released tight end Baylor Cupp and wide receiver Bryson Green to create additional roster flexibility.
Punter Blake Gillikin suffered a groin injury, forcing the Cardinals to search for a replacement before the season starts WTOP. The team has been in flux on special teams, creating an open roster spot that must be filled soon. The exact plan for finding a new punter has not been announced.
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