Former Arizona Cardinals who could return in 2019

Josh Bynes, ILB

Pros for return: Yes, the Redbirds released Josh Bynes, but he still would add a lot to the current team roster outlook. While the Cardinals added Jordan Hicks in free agency to pair with Haason Reddick, they could certainly stand to add more depth, which is where Bynes comes into play.

If he were to resign with the Cardinals, Bynes would likely be demoted to the third inside linebacker role. But, with Jordan Hicks’ injury history and Haason Reddick’s lack of experience at the position, it’s hard to imagine the team wouldn’t need the veteran inside linebacker to backup the two.

Bynes was also a bright spot in the 2018 Cardinals defense. He tallied 75 tackles, 2.0 sacks, and five pass deflections in just 11 games. He also finished the year with a Pro Football Focus grade of 75.8, good for 15th at the position. Per PFF, his run defense grade of 81.1 ranked 11th in the league amongst inside linebackers and 34 defensive run-stops.

Cons for return: Bynes was released for a reason. He’s a journeyman linebacker and at nearly 30-years-old doesn’t project to advance his game over the back half of his career. His struggles against pass-coverage are noted and so is the fact that he’s only played a full season once in his career.

Final verdict: Why not? Bynes hasn’t received much interest from other teams and would fill a need (depth linebacker) for the Cardinals.