Michael Palardy is used to this by now, having spent a decade in the NFL searching for permanence but understanding it might not come.

"It's just kind of the life we live, but any opportunity I get to be a part of the locker room is such a blessing," the left-footed punter said this week, after the Cardinals signed him to the practice squad after Blake Gillikin hurt his right foot last week. "Honestly that is my biggest perspective and the most healthy one for me."

Palardy was officially elevated to the roster on Saturday to punt and hold for the team when they host the Patriots on Sunday. That comes as Gillikin and running back Emari Demercado (back) were placed on Injured Reserve, ending their season barring a postseason appearance.

It is a tough way to end for both Gillikin -- who was having a Pro Bowl-type season at nearly 50 yards a punt -- and Demercado, the team's third-down back who was also averaging more than nine yards a carry. DeeJay Dallas will now be the team's third running back behind James Conner and rookie Trey Benson.

Sunday makes for a fascinating matchup for both Palardy -- who punted for the Patriots in 2022 -- and kicker Chad Ryland -- who kicked for the Patriots last season.

Palardy's story is an interesting one. He's punted for the Panthers, Dolphins and Patriots -- 80 games all told -- but was on seven other NFL teams (and the Toronto Argonauts) at one time or another. He worked out for Cardinals special teams coordinator Jeff Rodgers "multiple times" when Rodgers was still with the Broncos.

Given that Gillikin was injured and Palardy knew he'd play this week, "you know the stakes are little bit higher."

His relationships across the league are numerous. He's also been a holder his whole career, doing it for Graham Gano and, briefly, Justin Tucker, so he is comfortable in that role too.

"When you go into these situations you want to make it as seamless as possible," Palardy said.

As a lefty, he has be brought in for workouts or practices a few times this season just to give punt returners a look for whatever lefty they might be facing on Sunday. But that too is OK for Palardy, who will do what is necessary.

"Every opportunity is a good opportunity," he said. "I try to take same approach with that as I do something like this."

ROOF TO BE OPEN SUNDAY

The State Farm Stadium roof will be open for the game between the Cardinals and Patriots.