Josh Sweat Activated Off PUP List Following Career-High 12-Sack Season

Pass rusher Josh Sweat returned to the field Monday after being activated from the physically unable to perform list by the Arizona Cardinals.

TEMPE, Ariz. -- The Arizona Cardinals activated pass rusher Josh Sweat off the physically unable to perform (PUP) list on Monday, August 24, 2026. Sweat, who recorded a career-high 12 sacks during the 2025 NFL season, returned to the practice field for the first time since the conclusion of last year's campaign. His return follows a summer sidelined by a knee injury that initially placed him on the PUP list at the start of training camp in July.

Sweat’s activation comes two days after the Cardinals suffered a preseason loss to the Dallas Cowboys. Despite his 12-sack performance last year, the edge rusher was notably frustrated by being named a Pro Bowl alternate rather than a starter. His return to the active roster ends a period of inactivity that included missing the team’s voluntary offseason program. While he was present for the mandatory minicamp in June, he did not participate in any physical drills during those sessions.

Ramping Up the Pass Rush

Cardinals coach Mike LaFleur addressed the return of his primary edge threat following Monday’s session. LaFleur noted that the preparation for a pass rusher differs significantly from other positions, such as quarterback, where rhythm and timing are paramount. The coach argued that while offensive linemen must work in combination, an edge rusher’s role on third down is defined by finding a specific point from a set stance. LaFleur acknowledged that while he believes being on the field is essential to improvement, the "ramp-up" requirements for defensive ends are unique compared to the rest of the roster.

Prior to Monday, LaFleur had consistently responded to inquiries regarding the defender’s status by stating, "Josh is doing good." The player’s return to the grass confirms that assessment just 48 hours after the team's most recent exhibition game. Tight end Trey McBride described the atmosphere at practice as "refreshing," noting that the team was eager to see the veteran back in uniform after a long absence.

Roster Adjustments and Injury History

In a corresponding move on Monday, the Cardinals waived running back Trey Benson. Benson’s departure follows a series of setbacks involving his left knee, including a torn meniscus suffered in Week 4 of the previous season. Although he attempted a comeback, he reported discomfort in the same knee during early August.

Sweat’s knee injury, which kept him out of all July and early August practices, was managed through the team's standard PUP protocols. The Cardinals' medical staff and coaching team prioritized a gradual return to ensure the veteran was in the right physical shape. McBride emphasized that Sweat's long-term success in the league makes his presence on the field a significant factor for the Arizona defense moving forward. The defensive unit now reintegrates a player who missed every voluntary and mandatory practice rep since the end of the 2025 schedule until this Monday morning session.