Cardinals Sign Veteran Quarterback Josh Johnson From Bengals Practice Squad
Arizona adds depth as starting quarterback Gardner Minshew faces potential season-ending surgery.
1Roster Adjustment Strategy
The Arizona Cardinals have officially signed quarterback Josh Johnson from the Cincinnati Bengals practice squad. This move follows reports indicating that Cardinals starter Gardner Minshew may require season-ending surgery. Minshew is currently dealing with a torn UCL in his throwing arm, creating an urgent need for experienced depth within the Arizona quarterback room.
2Johnson's Extensive Career
At 40 years old, Josh Johnson is currently the third-oldest active quarterback in the NFL. He trails only Aaron Rodgers of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Joe Flacco of the Cincinnati Bengals in age. This signing marks the 15th different NFL franchise that Johnson has joined throughout his long and journeyman professional football career.
3Recent Bengals Tenure
The Cincinnati Bengals originally signed Johnson in March before adding him to their practice squad on September 1. He previously played for the organization during the 2013 season and participated in their 2015 training camp. Johnson also served as a standout performer for the Bengals during the most recent preseason training sessions.
4Previous Active Duty
During the current season, the Bengals elevated Johnson from the practice squad to the active roster for their Week 2 victory in Houston. This elevation occurred while starting quarterback Joe Burrow was limited in practice due to injury concerns. Johnson was listed as questionable on the injury report during that specific game week.
5Experience With Commanders
Before his current stint with the Cincinnati Bengals, Josh Johnson saw action in five games during the previous season while playing for the Washington Commanders. His ability to step into various offensive systems has made him a reliable backup option for teams facing sudden injury crises at the critical quarterback position this year.
6Injury Impact Assessment
The potential loss of Gardner Minshew represents a significant setback for the Arizona Cardinals' offensive planning. A torn UCL in a throwing arm is a severe injury that typically necessitates lengthy rehabilitation or surgical intervention. The team is now forced to rely on veteran presence to stabilize the position for the remainder season.
7Quarterback Depth Dynamics
NFL teams frequently utilize practice squads to maintain emergency depth for key positions like quarterback. By signing Johnson, the Cardinals are prioritizing experience over developmental prospects. This strategy is common when a team faces a mid-season injury to a starter and needs a player who can immediately grasp complex offensive playbooks and schemes.
8Future Team Outlook
As the Cardinals integrate Johnson into their roster, the coaching staff must determine his readiness to lead the offense. With Minshew's status uncertain, the team's performance will depend on how quickly the veteran can adapt to his 15th professional environment. The organization remains focused on maintaining competitiveness despite these ongoing injury challenges.