T.J. Ward

Ward, 34, spent last season on the Cardinals' practice squad. He last appeared in a game in 2017 with the Bucs. Ward was a two-time Pro Bowler and a member of the "No Fly Zone" secondary that led Denver to a Super Bowl 50 win. A 2010 second-round pick, Ward finishes with 607 tackles, eight interceptions, and 10 forced fumbles in his eight years in the league. 

Starting safety Budda Baker won't play this week after undergoing surgery to repair a ligament in his thumb. Jalen Thompson, the team's other safety, was placed on IR last month with an ankle injury. And backup Chris Banjo has been hobbled by a hamstring injury that could keep him out of this week's game against the Panthers. The Cardinals are considering deploying first-round draft pick LB Isaiah Simmons at safety, according to the team's website. Simmons this season has been targeted four times, resulting in four receptions, 94 yards, and two touchdowns. Teddy Bridgewater and the Carolina receivers could be in for a nice day against this Arizona secondary. 

Ward did not play in 2018 after appearing in 12 games with the Buccaneers throughout his 2017 campaign, when he amassed 43 tackles (31 solo) and three passes defensed. The two-time Pro Bowler could provide a willing suitor with a veteran presence in the secondary, but at 32, Ward's peak playing days are behind him.

A stalwart member of the Broncos secondary since 2014, Ward is on the wrong side of 30 and entering the final year of his contract. It's unclear who exactly will line up at strong safety with Ward out of the picture, but Will Parks and Justin Simmons appear to be the top candidates.