The offseason has officially begun when a team signs players to "futures" contracts, and the Cardinals did that on Wednesday.
The team inked 15 players -- called futures because while they have been signed, they don't officially kick in until the new league year begins on March 16 -- to the roster. Two players -- running back Jaylen Samuels and tight end Deon Yelder -- are new, with the other 13 all having spent time on the Cardinals' practice squad or active roster during the 2021 season.
The 6-foot, 228-pound Samuels was a one-time fifth-round pick of the Steelers in 2018 before playing this past season in Houston. He has 458 career rushing yards on 136 carries with one touchdown, adding 85 catches for 564 yards and four TDs. He's remembered at State Farm Stadium for absorbing a hellacious, helmet-knocked-off hit by new teammate Jordan Hicks during the Steelers' win that season against the Cardinals.
The 6-4, 255-pound Yelder has played in 29 games over four years with the Chiefs and Buccaneers, and has spent time with the Saints and Giants. He has 11 catches for 86 yards.
The Cardinals also re-signed cornerback Breon Borders, who was released prior to the playoff game, as well as veteran linebacker Joe Walker and international tight end Bernhard Seikovits.
The full list of signees:
- WR Andre Baccellia
- CB Breon Borders
- CB Nate Brooks
- DE Matt Dickerson
- TE Alex Ellis
- S Javon Hagan
- OL Danny Isidora
- OL Koda Martin
- RB Jaylen Samuels
- TE Bernhard Seikovits
- OL Eric Smith
- LB Joe Walker
- TE David Wells
- CB Jace Whittaker
- TE Deon Yelder
