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

GLENDALE — The Arizona Cardinals’ first punt of the evening in Saturday’s 34-13 loss to the Dallas Cowboys didn’t come courtesy of Blake Gillikin.

Neither did the last.

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 initially ruled as questionable and was seen in uniform on the sideline.

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.

He added a 44-yarder later in the game, though that one landed in the end zone for the touchback.

Gillikin, meanwhile, still held for Ryland during field goal attempts but did not record a punt.

He is scheduled for an MRI on Sunday.

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.

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