Why is Cardinals kicker Chad Ryland punting vs. the Cowboys?

GLENDALE — The Arizona Cardinals’ first punt of the evening against the Dallas Cowboys on Saturday didn’t come courtesy of Blake Gillikin.

Instead, it was kicker Chad Ryland pulling double duty in the exhibition.

So, what gives?

Before Cardinals-Cowboys kicked off, Gillikin picked up a groin injury during pregame warmups.

He was officially ruled as questionable to return.

But when it came to Arizona’s first punt of the tilt, Ryland strolled out there for the boot.

The end result was a 39-yard punt to Dallas’ 25-yard line.

Not too shabby for the kicker coming in on short order.

Has Chad Ryland punted for the Cardinals before?

In a 30-18 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in 2024, Ryland had three punts and averaged 39 yards an attempt.

Talk about consistent distance-wise.

Catch the rest of Cardinals-Cowboys on Arizona Sports 98.7.

Related

Rabbit Taylor-Demerson exits Cardinals-Cowboys with rib injuryCardinals offense already down key piece for Week 1 game vs. ChargersCardinals owner Michael Bidwill says new performance center is under constructionCardinals’ Gardner Minshew to start vs. Cowboys, Carson Beck most likely outCardinals activate CB Garrett Williams from PUP listCardinals TE Trey McBride breaks top 15 on NFL top 100 players list ahead of 2026 season