The Arizona Cardinals have made another addition to their roster by signing former University of Arizona Wildcat Tyler Manoa to their practice squad. Manoa, a versatile defensive lineman, will provide much-needed depth to the Cardinals’ defensive front. The move comes as the team continues to navigate injuries and other roster challenges during the 2023 NFL season.
Tyler Manoa, who initially started his college career with the UCLA Bruins before transferring to Arizona, made a name for himself as a strong, disruptive presence on the defensive line. Known for his size, strength, and ability to plug gaps, Manoa became a valuable asset for the Wildcats. Though undrafted, his college performance caught the attention of NFL scouts, ultimately earning him a chance with the Cardinals.
The signing comes at a crucial time for Arizona, as they are dealing with several injuries across their defensive line. Manoa’s ability to play multiple positions on the line makes him a valuable addition to the practice squad, giving the Cardinals flexibility in case they need to promote him to the active roster later in the season.
However, the Cardinals’ defensive unit also suffered a setback with the loss of Ben Stille, who was signed off their practice squad by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Stille, another promising defensive lineman, had been contributing as a rotational player for the Cardinals and was considered a potential call-up for more significant roles. His departure leaves a void in the Cardinals’ depth, forcing the team to shuffle their defensive pieces once again.
For the Cardinals, the move is bittersweet—gaining a promising player in Manoa while losing one in Stille. The NFL season is long and grueling, and the success of a team often depends on the contributions of lesser-known players stepping up when called upon. Tyler Manoa now has the chance to make his mark and help bolster the Cardinals’ defense as the season progresses.
As the Cardinals look to stay competitive in a tough NFC West division, these roster moves could prove pivotal in the weeks to come. The team will hope that Manoa can step in and contribute when needed, just as Stille had begun to do before his departure.