Cardinals Signed Starling Thomas V to Active Roster
The Cardinals promoted Starling Thomas V from the practice squad following a season-ending injury to Will Johnson.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Football
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The Arizona Cardinals have added cornerback Starling Thomas V to their active roster. The move comes after Will Johnson suffered a season-ending injury, leaving a vacancy in the secondary.
Why it matters
Thomas provides necessary depth to the Cardinals' defensive backfield while veteran players recover. His return to the active lineup addresses immediate staffing needs in the secondary rotation.
In 2023, Starling Thomas V appeared in 12 games and recorded seven starts. He missed the entire 2025 season while recovering from a torn ACL before being activated in September 2026.
The players
Starling Thomas V
He is an NFL cornerback who is returning to the active roster after recovering from a torn ACL.
Will Johnson
He is a defensive player for the Cardinals who suffered a season-ending injury.
Garrett Williams
He is a Cardinals cornerback currently sidelined on the physically unable to perform list.
Denzel Burke
He is a defensive back currently filling the nickel corner role for the team.
The details
Starling Thomas V was elevated from the practice squad, where he had been preparing by coaching teammates and studying film. He is now expected to contribute against the 49ers as the team navigates injuries to Will Johnson and Garrett Williams.
Timeline
Thomas played 12 games and seven starts in 2023.
Thomas last appeared in a game during the 2024 season finale.
Thomas missed the entire 2025 season due to a torn ACL.
Thomas was signed to the active roster in September 2026.
Season Trajectory
This roster move underscores how teams rely on practice squad development to maintain defensive integrity throughout a season. Filling gaps left by injured starters like Will Johnson is critical to maintaining the team's standing in a competitive division.
Starling Thomas V is expected to see immediate action against the 49ers. His integration into the secondary allows Denzel Burke to maintain his current role while the team manages the recovery of Garrett Williams.
The takeaway
Maintaining depth through the practice squad is essential for teams to stay competitive during long seasons. Players like Thomas illustrate the importance of staying prepared for when an opportunity to contribute arises.
Further reading
For more on the team's depth, visit Football.
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Do you feel encouraged when a long-injured player returns to your local team's active roster?
