NFL roster moves: Arizona Cardinals sign CB Corey White, add S D.J. Swearinger to practice squad

The Arizona Cardinals made several roster moves to counter their decision to place running back Chris Johnson on injured reserve, but with designation to return. If the Cardinals were to make it to the Super Bowl, he could return to play then. But with other injuries on the roster, other moves were needed to ensure the depth they need at all positions.

We already know running back Kerwynn Williams was moved up to the active roster from the practice squad. But that was not the only addition to the 53-man roster.

Arizona announced the signing of cornerback Corey White, also releasing cornerback Robert Nelson, Jr, who had recently been promoted from the practice squad.

White (6-1, 210) played in seven games (one start) this season with the Dallas Cowboys and had four tackles and three passes defensed before being released on November 17. He spent his first three years in the league with New Orleans after being drafted in the fifth round (162nd overall) of the 2012 NFL Draft out of Samford. During his time with the Saints, White played in 41 games with 19 starts and had 128 tackles (104 solo), four interceptions, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, 19 passes defensed and one sack.

Arizona needs some experience in their depth, as Jerraud Powers will probably be out this week with a calf strain. Justin Bethel will start in his place, but Nelson was the only depth behind him. White has experience in the league and has played enough on the field to hopefully contribute at least a little. As it is, Arizona will move receiver Brittan Golden to defensive back this week. He played DB as well as WR in high school.

One could speculate Nelson will be brought back to the practice squad after he clears waivers. After a pair of other moves, there is still a spot available.

In a separate pair of transactions affecting only the practice squad, the team released tight end Brandon Bostick and signed safety D.J. Swearinger.

Swearinger (5-10, 208) was a second-round pick (57th overall) of the Texans in the 2013 NFL Draft out of South Carolina and played in all 32 games (22 starts) from 2013-14 with Houston. He was claimed off waivers by Tampa Bay in May and played in seven games with the Buccaneers this season, totaling 11 tackles and a fumble recovery before being released on November 17. For his career, Swearinger has 109 tackles, three interceptions, 10 passes defensed, one sack, four forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries in 39 games.