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Arizona Cardinals veterans missing from 1st day of OTAS

Originally posted on Burn City Sports
By Tanner Tortorella | Last updated May 28, 2025 8:21 PM ET

GLENDALE – Wednesday was the first day of Arizona Cardinals voluntary OTAs at its Tempe training facility. The series of six practices are not required and consist of organized team activities. Regardless if not mandatory, it could be an indicator of what’s to come when the season begins.

Sports Illustrated Donnie Druin reported that five players were absent from the field during the first day of practice.

List of Cardinals to miss 1st day of OTAS:

“So some guys are in and out, but like where it’s at right now,” head coach Jonathan Gannon told reporters before practice on Wednesday. “I will say this, “I always ask them because it is voluntary, just communicate with me. Our guys have done an excellent job communicating with me, so that’s good to see.”

The group of five players are 6+ year veterans and likely understand the process of keeping in shape and focusing on stay healthy. None of the players above dealt with injuries ending last year. However, many players have their own trainers and regime and prefer to workout in their own style if given the option.

Druin mentioned that offensive lineman Jonah Williams and rookie defensive lineman Walter Nolen was rooking on the side, which means that they’re likely dealing with something injury-related. Williams had season cut short last season because of a knee injury, while Nolen’s injury hasn’t been revealed but is likely minor.

Team captains were in attendance like quarterback Kyler Murray and safety Budda Baker, setting a precedent heading into next year. The Cardinals have heavy expectations for 2025, looking to make their first playoff appearance in four years. The journey to get their starts at the Tempe practice fields.

This article first appeared on Burn City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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