With veteran kicker Phil Dawson dealing with a right hip injury, the Cardinals made sure they had a safety net Friday by bringing back kicker Matt McCrane to the practice squad.

McCrane, who was with the Cardinals in the preseason before being cut, would be available if Dawson's health doesn't come around. The team could promote him to the active roster Saturday if needed.

To make room on the practice squad, the Cards released offensive lineman Kyle Friend.

McCrane played in three games with the Raiders, converting 5-of-9 field goal attempts and all five extra points before being released. In the preseason for the Cardinals, McCrane actually led the team in scoring with 15 points, making 4-of-4 field goals (including two from at least 50 yards) and all three extra points.

Dawson is 3-for-5 on field goals this season and has made all 11 extra-point attempts.