Cowboys activate key FA signing from IR, elevate TE for Wk 8 vs Cards

The Dallas Cowboys made an expected roster move on Saturday, in anticipation of their Week 8 game against the Arizona Cardinals . The club activated safety PJ Locke (foot) from the IR/Designated to Return list on Saturday , bringing back the key free agent signing as the defense continues to regain their health after several early-season hurdles. The team created room on the 53-man roster earlier in the week with the release of RB Emari Demercado .

In addition with trying to learn and implement the new scheme of first-year defensive coordinator Christian Parker, injuries have ravaged the unit, especially in the back seven. Dallas got CB Cobie Durant back in Week 7's win over the Eagles , in addition to linebacker DeMarvion Overshown. The club has yet to open the 21-day practice window of premiere signing Jalen Thompson, but there's hope he can ramp up next week.

Dallas has had to resort to playing depth pieces Markquese Bell and Alijah Clark, with Bell especially being targeted by opposing passing games.

As for this week's contest, Dallas ruled out two players in Friday's final practice report. Linebacker Dee Winters (calf) and KR/WR Kavontae Turpin (ribs) will not play in the contest. Six players were listed as questionable, including WR George Pickens, who is dealing with both hamstring and shoulder ailments, and Kenny Clark, who appeared for the first time this week with a back issue.

TE Luke Schoonmaker, Groin - Questionable

WR George Pickens, Shoulder/Hamstring - Questionable

(IR) DE Jonathan Bullard, Calf- Questionable

(IR) LB Marist Liufau, Arm - Questionable

Caleb Downs (ankle), Quinnen Williams (hamstring), Tyler Smith (ankl), and Drew Shelton (hamstring) appeared on the practice report throughout the week, but carry no designation into the Week 8 game against Arizona.

The team elevated TE James Mitchell from the practice squad for this game, hedging their bets if Schoonmaker can't go.

As for the Cardinals, here are their game designations, headlined by top DT Walter Nolen.

OL Haljate Froholdt, knee - Questionable