The NFL is a fickle business, and who you know and who has vouched for you before can go a long ways in helping you stick on a roster.
Darian Thompson, the former third round pick for the New York Giants, is a perfect example.
The Cardinals recently signed Thompson to a practice squad contract, likely because of defensive backs coach David Merritt’s familiarity with Thompson. Merritt was the DB coach for the Giants when Thompson was drafted and helped him have a nice sophomore campaign in New York.
Thompson started all 16 games in 2017, finishing with 75 tackles, six pass deflections, and an interception.