Early Season Hurdles: Rookie Dreams Derailed by Injury
Rookie Offensive Lineman Chase Bisontis's Season Concludes Prematurely
It has been confirmed that Chase Bisontis, the promising offensive lineman selected by the Arizona Cardinals in the second round of this year's draft, will not be participating in the remainder of the season. His rookie campaign came to an abrupt end after only two preseason appearances.
Injured Reserve Placement Finalizes Bisontis's Rookie Season End
The Cardinals officially placed Bisontis on injured reserve on Saturday, a move that is part of a series of roster adjustments. This action confirms the conclusion of his season, as he will be unable to return to play this year.
Details of the Injury: Torn MCL Sustained in Preseason Victory
Bisontis sustained a torn MCL in his left knee during the Cardinals' 27-14 preseason win against the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday. This significant injury necessitates an extended recovery period, making a return to play this season impossible.
Injured Reserve Regulations and Their Impact on Player Returns
Reports had previously indicated that Bisontis would miss most, if not all, of the season. The decision to place him on injured reserve now means he is out for the entirety of the current season. NFL rules allow teams to designate two players placed on injured reserve on cutdown day to return later in the season. However, players placed on injured reserve at this stage, unless subsequently waived with an injury settlement, are ineligible to return to the active roster for the season.
Impact on Right Guard Competition and Roster Adjustments
Bisontis had been vying for the starting right guard position with third-year player Isaiah Adams. With Bisontis now out, the competition for this role is resolved, and the team will now focus on which other offensive lineman will secure a spot on the roster in his absence.
Potential Replacements Emerge for the Open Roster Spot
The unfortunate injury to Bisontis creates an opportunity for other players such as Hayden Conner, Matt Pryor, or Oli Udoh to potentially earn a place on the team's final roster.
Another Cardinals Draft Pick Sidelined for the Season
Bisontis marks the second Arizona Cardinals' 2026 draft pick to face a season-ending injury. Defensive lineman Kaleb Proctor, a fourth-round selection, previously suffered a meniscus tear in his knee during OTAs and was placed on injured reserve earlier in the offseason. The team's depth has been tested early with these significant losses.
