Josh Sweat returns to the Cardinals' roster after being activated from the PUP list.

In a significant development for the Arizona Cardinals, pass rusher Josh Sweat has been activated from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, marking his return to practice for the first time since the conclusion of the previous season. This announcement came on Monday, following a lengthy recovery from a knee injury that had sidelined him since the start of training camp in July.

Prior to his activation, Sweat had not participated in the Cardinals' voluntary offseason program and attended the mandatory minicamp in June without engaging in any practices. Following the team's preseason loss to the Dallas Cowboys on Saturday, head coach Mike LaFleur provided an update on Sweat's condition, stating, "Josh is doing good." This positive assessment paved the way for Sweat's return to the field just two days later.

LaFleur emphasized the importance of a gradual ramp-up period for players returning from injury, particularly those who have been away from the team. He noted that the dynamics of edge rushers differ from other positions, particularly in terms of rhythm and timing. "It's a little different than the rhythm and timing of a quarterback," LaFleur explained. "When you're in that stance on third down, you're finding your point. You want to get better at football, and that requires being out there." His comments reflect a nuanced understanding of the unique challenges faced by players in Sweat's position.

Last season, Sweat enjoyed a career year, recording a personal best of 12 sacks, although he was named a Pro Bowl alternate rather than a starter, a decision that reportedly frustrated him. His return to practice is seen as a crucial boost for the Cardinals as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Following Monday's practice, tight end Trey McBride expressed enthusiasm about Sweat's return, describing it as "cool" to see him back in uniform. "It's been a while since we've seen him out in his uniform," McBride remarked. "He's obviously a tremendous player with a lot of success in this league. Having him back on the field is going to be huge for us."

In a related roster move, the Cardinals waived running back Trey Benson on the same day. Benson had been recovering from a torn meniscus in his left knee, sustained in Week 4 of the previous season, and had experienced discomfort in the knee earlier this month.