Cardinals Injury Update: Jaylon Jones Only Player Hurt in Final Preseason Win Over Raiders

The Arizona Cardinals wrapped up their preseason schedule on a high note, securing a 20-10 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders at State Farm Stadium. Even more encouraging than the win was the team’s clean bill of health, as they emerged from the contest with minimal injury concerns—a crucial development with roster cuts looming.

Cornerback Jaylon Jones was the only player to leave the game due to injury. He was briefly evaluated for a concussion after a tackle left him holding a towel to his face. However, head coach Jonathan Gannon downplayed the incident in his postgame remarks, suggesting it was a minor facial injury and confirming that Jones is “fine.” This will be reassuring for Cardinals fans and coaches alike as they finalize their 53-man roster ahead of Tuesday’s NFL deadline.

Despite the relative lack of injuries in the final game, the Cardinals still have significant roster decisions to make based on the status of several key players currently sidelined.

How does the Cardinals’ injury status affect their 53-man roster decisions?

The main keyword Cardinals injury update is at the forefront as the team enters a pivotal period. Arizona currently has four players—defensive linemen Bilal Nichols and Walter Nolen, outside linebacker BJ Ojulari, and offensive lineman Will Hernandez—on the active Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. According to league rules, if they are not activated by Tuesday, they will be placed on the reserve PUP list and miss at least the first four games of the regular season.

Given that none of these four players were activated before or after the preseason finale, it appears increasingly likely they will begin the regular season on PUP reserve. This scenario gives the Cardinals extra roster flexibility in the short term but creates longer-term depth concerns at critical positions like the defensive line and offensive front.

This strategic decision also provides Arizona an opportunity to evaluate fringe players who might otherwise be released, allowing them to temporarily fill roster gaps left by those beginning the season on the sidelines.

Potential Injured Reserve Moves: Who Might Not Make the Cut?

In addition to the PUP list concerns, three players—offensive linemen Christian Jones and Hayden Conner, along with defensive lineman Justin Jones—are dealing with knee injuries that may land them on injured reserve. If these players are placed on IR before the final roster cuts, they will not be eligible to return this season unless designated to return after making the 53-man roster initially.

The Cardinals can use up to two short-term IR designations without those players needing to occupy a roster spot heading into Week 1. The coaching staff and front office must carefully weigh each injury’s severity, long-term impact, and the value of roster spots when making these calls.

This injury-related roster calculus underscores the importance of having accurate and timely health updates. For players like Jaylon Jones, even minor injuries can tip the scales between making the roster or being released, especially when depth charts are stacked and competition is fierce.

With minimal damage from their preseason finale, the Cardinals are poised to make clean-cut roster decisions. The final injury update offers optimism ahead of a pivotal 2025 NFL season start.

For your information:

What injury did Jaylon Jones suffer in the Raiders game?
Jaylon Jones was evaluated for a potential concussion but was later deemed fine. He appeared to suffer a minor facial injury, not a head injury.

Which Cardinals players are on the PUP list right now?
Bilal Nichols, Walter Nolen, BJ Ojulari, and Will Hernandez are currently on the active PUP list and are likely to start the season on reserve PUP.

Will any Cardinals players go on injured reserve?
Christian Jones, Hayden Conner, and Justin Jones are candidates for injured reserve due to knee injuries. Final decisions depend on roster strategy and injury severity.

How do PUP and IR lists impact the 53-man roster?
Players on the reserve PUP list miss at least four games but don’t count against the 53-man roster. IR placements can create short-term flexibility but limit return options.

Is Jaylon Jones likely to make the final Cardinals roster?
Jaylon Jones is considered a bubble player. Though his injury is minor, roster competition may still impact his chances of making the final team.