53-man roster cuts: Cardinals releasing CBs Sean Murphy-Bunting, Starling Thomas V

The Arizona Cardinals are expected to release cornerbacks Sean Murphy-Bunting and Starling Thomas V, according to CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz.

Thomas was not expected to make Arizona’s 53-man roster despite being in the mix to start two camps ago before going down with a torn ACL in 2025.

Murphy-Bunting appeared to have a roster spot heading into training camp as he was filling in as Arizona’s starting nickel.

But with Garrett Williams off the physically unable to perform list, Murphy-Bunting’s spot wasn’t as secure as before.

With the two cornerbacks off the roster, that could mean good news for Elijah Jones and/or Kei’Trel Clark. Both were squarely on the bubble this camp and preseason.

A look at who else has reportedly been cut by the Cardinals:

Arizona Cardinals 53-man roster cuts

Matt Pryor released by Cardinals

Additionally, Arizona is also moving on from offensive lineman Matt Pryor, according to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo.

Pryor, who was signed in March, couldn’t carve out a role despite the team losing Chase Bisontis (MCL tear) for the season.

Owen Pappoe cut

Inside linebacker Owen Pappoe is also among Sunday’s cut casualties, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.

Pappoe joined the team as a 2023 fifth-round pick and served primarily on special teams.

The linebacker’s departure likely means good news for rookie Karson Sharar, who impressed with his special teams prowess throughout training camp and the preseason.

Rivaldo Fairweather released

Tight end Rivaldo Fairweather did not make Arizona’s initial 53-man roster, according to Zenitz.

The tight end made some plays through camp and the preseason but also nullified two touchdowns due to penalties against the Dallas Cowboys.

Head coach Mike LaFleur does not play when it comes to committing penalties or offensive sloppiness.

The Cardinals signed Fairweather off of the Cowboys’ practice squad late last season.

Kedon Slovis waived

Arizona is waiving quarterback Kedon Slovis, according to Garafolo.

Slovis was in a tough spot to make the roster following the additions of Gardner Minshew II and Carson Beck this offseason.

He’s a prime candidate for Arizona’s practice squad if he clears waivers.

Elijah Jones waived

Cornerback Elijah Jones is another one of general manager Monti Ossenfort’s draft picks who didn’t crack the initial 53-man roster on Sunday.

The 2024 third-rounder has been waived, according to Zenitz.

Jones was on the bubble through training camp and the preseason. He was among the players who were on the field late into exhibitions, including Friday’s loss to the Green Bay Packers.

With Jones, Murphy-Bunting and Thomas off the roster, that could mean good news for Kei’Trel Clark.

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