It felt inevitable for Joe Walker.
The veteran linebacker, who had played nine games in a row for the Cardinals as a practice squad call-up -- either as a standard elevation or a Covid replacement -- was finally signed to the 53-man roster on Tuesday.
The Cardinals also released tight end David Wells, who had been activated from Injured Reserve on Monday, as well as re-signed linebacker Nate Hall to the practice squad.
Walker has mostly played special teams, including a recovery of a surprise Lions onside kick early in last weekend's game at Detroit. He also played five defensive snaps. With Ezekiel Turner expected to remain on IR the duration of the season, Walker has helped fill that void.
CONNER'S NEW INJURY
Another week, another new injury for running back James Conner, who was listed as a DNP for Tuesday's practice with a heel issue. (The Cardinals did not actually practice; the injury report was an estimation if they did.)
Also sitting out were wide receiver Rondale Moore (ankle) and defensive lineman Jordan Phillips (knee), both of whom coach Kliff Kingsbury called "day to day." Linebacker Isaiah Simmons (shoulder) also sat. Limited were tight end Zach Ertz (hamstring), offensive lineman Max Garcia (knee), linebacker Markus Golden (knee), defensive lineman Zach Kerr (ribs) and wide receiver Antoine Wesley (ribs).
For the Colts, safety Andreew Sendejo (concussion) and cornerback Rock Ya-Sin (illness) sat out practice, as did center Ryan Kelly (personal).