Arizona Cardinals claim D.J. Swearinger off waivers

Former Arizona Cardinals safety D.J. Swearinger is headed back to town.

The team announced Tuesday it claimed Swearinger off waivers from Washington, a day after he was cut by the Redskins.

The Cardinals placed rookie offensive lineman Korey Cunningham (foot) on injured reserve and released safety Fish Smithson from the practice squad in corresponding moves.

The 27-year-old Swearinger was selected as a Pro Bowl alternate this season but was waived after criticizing Redskins defensive coordinator Greg Manusky following their loss Saturday to the Tennessee Titans.

Redskins coach Jay Gruden told the Washington Post, “We just thought it was best for both parties.”

Swearinger announced his return through an Instagram post.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

#BirdGang 2016 A Day B4 I Thought I Was Going Back To Az My Agent Told Me We Were Gonna Go To Washington To Start Our Own Culture And Get More Money Up Front! Of Course I Made My Decision Because I Wanted To Play For My Idol’s Team And Fulfill His Legacy And Mines! I Gave That Organization My Heart And Soul And They Spit In My Face For Giving My Opinion Only To Better The Team!! Right Wrong Or Indifferent I’ve Found My Peace And Learned From It And I Am So Excited To Go Back To The Sunny Desert Arizona Like I Never Left!! I’m Baaaaacckkkk!!!!

A post shared by Dj Swearinger (@jungleboi_swaggg) on Dec 25, 2018 at 12:08pm PST

Swearinger has four interceptions, three forced fumbles and a sack in 15 games this season.

In 20 games with the Cardinals in 2015 and 2016, Swearinger posted three interceptions, two sacks and a forced fumble.

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