Dennis Gardeck is back on the roster.

The linebacker, who was returning from ACL surgery, had been tracking to be ready at season's outset -- only to break his hand in practice right before the opener. It landed him on short-term injured reserve, but the Cardinals activated him to the roster Saturday and he could be available to play against the Rams Sunday.

Both the Cardinals (3-0) and Rams (3-0) are undefeated.

There was a spot on the roster after the Cardinals released cornerback Luq Barcoo on Thursday.

The team also elevated safety Chris Banjo and offensive lineman Eric Smith from the practice squad. For Banjo, it is his second and final standard elevation allowed from the practice squad.

Gardeck remains an important part of special teams, and the Cardinals are hoping he also can continue to trend upward as a pass rusher. In limited defensive snaps last season, Gardeck piled up seven sacks. He will join an already solid pass rush with Chandler Jones, Markus Golden and J.J. Watt.