Story perspectives

Cardinals Set 2026 Roster, Place Conner, Carter on IR

8/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Arizona Cardinals announced their initial 53-man roster for the 2026 NFL season.
Running back James Conner was placed on injured reserve with a designation to return, missing at least four games.
Defensive end Zach Carter also moved to injured reserve with a designation to return.
Tip Reiman was placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list and will miss the first four games.

History

Historical Context

In 2012, the National Football League instituted the Injured Reserve designation-to-return, permitting teams to reactivate players after eight weeks. The rule applied to all 32 franchises, each maintaining a 53-man active roster and allowing up to two players to return each season. Today the Arizona Cardinals placed running back James Conner, defensive end Zach Carter, and rookie Tip Reiman on injured reserve or the PUP list, echoing the 2012 flexibility. The precedent ensures teams can manage roster depth while preserving player health, shaping future roster strategies through the 2026 season and beyond.

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Story summary

The Arizona Cardinals announced their initial 53-man roster for the 2026 NFL season.
Running back James Conner was placed on injured reserve with a designation to return, missing at least four games.
Defensive end Zach Carter also moved to injured reserve with a designation to return.
Tip Reiman was placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list and will miss the first four games.

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