The Arizona Cardinals have officially signed quarterback Josh Johnson off the Cincinnati Bengals’ practice squad, according to multiple reports. This strategic roster move comes at a critical juncture for the Cardinals, who are scrambling to stabilize their quarterback room following devastating news regarding their starter. Johnson, a 40-year-old veteran, provides immediate depth and experience for a team that may soon be without its primary signal-caller for the remainder of the campaign.
Arizona moves to secure veteran backup as Gardner Minshew faces season-ending surgery
The urgency of this acquisition is driven by reports that Cardinals quarterback Gardner Minshew requires season-ending surgery on a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his throwing arm. With Minshew’s availability in doubt, the Cardinals have turned to Johnson, who recently demonstrated his readiness by being elevated to the active roster for the Bengals’ Week 2 victory over the Houston Texans. At the time, Bengals starter Joe Burrow was listed as questionable due to practice limitations, prompting Cincinnati to trust Johnson with game-time responsibilities.
Johnson’s journey with Cincinnati has been a whirlwind, beginning with his signing in March and a standout preseason performance that earned him a spot on the practice squad on Sept. 1. Despite being the league’s third-oldest active quarterback behind Aaron Rodgers and Joe Flacco, Johnson’s recent elevation highlights the NFL’s continued reliance on veteran leadership in high-pressure situations. For Arizona, this signing is not just a depth addition but a necessary insurance policy to ensure continuity at the most important position on the field.
Source: Yahoo Sports
