John Abraham doesn't pass concussion protocol, Arizona Cardinals make roster moves for his return

The Arizona Cardinals made some roster moves to open a spot on the roster for veteran linebacker John Abraham, who had left the team temporarily. However, Abraham is not yet cleared to practice after suffering a concussion in the second half of the team's season opener.

Head coach Bruce Arians told Alex Marvez on Sirius XM NFL Abraham did not pass his concussion tests on Tuesday. He will try again on Wednesday, but it is possible he will not be available for the team's next game on Sunday at home against the  San Francisco 49ers.

Abraham's motivation to play is apparently back.

"He's excited (to play)," Arians said. "When you get that first concussion, and he had a big one, it shakes you up sometimes. I think the rest and sitting back this weekend at home, he missed it a lot. He's more than ready to roll for down the stretch."

In connection with the return of Abraham, Arizona announced the release of linebacker Marcus Benard and punter Drew Butler. It also announced the signing of linebacker Victor Butler.

Drew Butler was signed before the season opener when Dave Zastudil was sidelined with a groin injury. He apparently is healthy again and will be able to punt in Week 3.

The newly signed Butler (6-2, 245) is a five-year NFL veteran who played four years with the Dallas Cowboys (2009-12) before missing last season with the New Orleans Saints on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list with a knee injury. With the Cowboys, Butler played in 63 games (two starts) and had 65 tackles (48 solos), 11 sacks, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. He only missed one game in his four seasons with the Cowboys.

He originally entered the league with the Cowboys as a fourth-round selection (110th overall) in the 2009 NFL Draft out of Oregon State. Butler was released by the Saints on August 26.

The Cardinals continue to throw players at the linebacker positions, searching for a boost in production in getting pressure on opposing quarterbacks.