Arizona Cardinals Likely Sit Starters in Final Preseason vs Raiders

The Arizona Cardinals are likely to keep their starters out of the preseason finale against the Las Vegas Raiders as they prepare for the regular season opener, with head coach Jonathan Gannon expressing cautious optimism about the roster's health and form. The decision aligns with the team's recent approach, having sat starters during the Week 2 loss to the Denver Broncos after a joint practice, while playing them briefly in Week 1. The preseason finale will be a key opportunity for backup players and those fighting for roster spots, such as quarterback Clayton Tune, to prove themselves before final cuts reduce the roster to 53 players. Meanwhile, the Raiders also view their preseason finale as crucial for bubble players striving to secure roster spots, with several late-round picks and undrafted free agents aiming to impress. The Cardinals have released an unofficial depth chart ahead of the game, providing insights into player positioning and competition. The matchup, set for Saturday at State Farm Stadium with a 7 p.m. kickoff, also marks a face-off between head coaches Jonathan Gannon and Pete Carroll, with Gannon expressing admiration for Carroll's coaching legacy.