The Cardinals could look to bring Alford back on a team-friendly deal for the 2021 season. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Could CB Robert Alford return to Cardinals after release?

As Josh Alper noted for Pro Football Talk, the Arizona Cardinals released veteran cornerback Robert Alford on Wednesday. That, however, may only be the beginning of his latest NFL saga. 

John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports 98.7 FM tweeted that he "would not be surprised" if the Cardinals look to bring Alford back on a team-friendly deal for the 2021 season: 

Alford agreed to a three-year, $22.5 million contract with the Cardinals in February 2019 but never played a single meaningful down with the club. He suffered a broken leg shortly before the 2019 season and then went down to a torn pectoral muscle last August. 

Wednesday's transaction saves the Cardinals $7.5 million in salary-cap space, per Arizona Sports

Alford is a 32-year-old with far more questions than answers about his health and remaining skills hovering over his status at a time when the NFL's salary cap will drop by $15.7 million from last year's value. Giving the Cardinals a discount may be what's best for his football future, assuming Arizona will welcome him back. 

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
'Positionless' rules lead to a center-heavy NBA All-Defensive team
Jets' Aaron Rodgers addresses mental rust, RFK Jr. decision
Penguins sign young defenseman to three-year extension
Guardians place right-hander on injured list
Victor Wembanyama's latest honor puts another spotlight on his greatness
Lamar Jackson reportedly made significant physical change for 2024
Dolphins safety appears to take a shot at former DC
Ryan Leaf goes off on top NFL insider, accuses him of being a fraud
Report: TNT is still fighting to save its NBA rights
Lightning re-acquire defenseman from Predators
Steelers star DT blasts reporter's 'bold face lie'
Deadline for LeBron James' contract decision revealed
Jets HC Robert Saleh shares significant update on Aaron Rodgers' health
Steelers add another veteran to running back room
Charvarius Ward names positive 49ers can take from Super Bowl loss
Dolphins' Tua Tagovailoa reportedly makes physical change amid contract talks
Do Oilers need more from Connor McDavid to get to Stanley Cup Final?
All-Rookie teams show gems available all over draft
The NBA has not witnessed this much parity in 50 years
Knicks expected to be 'aggressive' in upgrading their roster

Want more Cardinals news?

Join the hundreds of thousands of fans who start their day with Yardbarker's Morning Bark, the best newsletter in sports.