Back to the Top News Newsfeed

Cardinals sign Australian rules player to play cornerback

The NFC West is getting another Australian athlete. The Cardinals announced Tuesday the signing of Aussie rules football player Joel Wilkinson.

The 24-year-old retired as an Australian rules player to pursue an NFL career as a cornerback. He played for the Gold Coast Suns from 2011-13, and then played in 27 games for the Northern Blues with five goals.

MORE: Behind the scenes of Jarryd Hayne's incredible journey

He joins former Australian rugby league player Jarryd Hayne, a running back with the 49ers, as NFL players from Down Under.

The 6-0, 190-pound Wilkinson has been the subject of racial abuse in Australia, including documented instances of slurs by an opposing player and rival fans.