Cardinals Elevate Failed Bill Belichick Pick From Practice Squad

A former New England Patriots kicker could have his number called this Sunday.

The Arizona Cardinals on Saturday elevated kicker Chad Ryland and tackle Charlie Heck from the practice squad ahead of their game against the San Francisco 49ers.

Matt Prater dealt with left knee soreness this week, which forced the Cardinals to sign Ryland to their practice squad. The 2023 fourth-round pick made 16 of 25 field goals last season, including a miracle, game-winning 56-yarder against the Denver Broncos on Christmas Eve. Despite that, he only made 50% of tries over 40 yards.

That inconsistency was why Ryland didn't win the Patriots kicker job in training camp over veteran Joey Slye, who made a 63-yard field goal last Sunday. His release was another blemish in Bill Belichick's recent draft track record, which he seemed to open up to on the "Pat McAfee Show" on Monday.

Arizona will hope Ryland won't be a hindrance to it when it takes on the 49ers in Week 5 on Sunday.