Arizona Cardinals linebacker Deone Bucannon recently underwent ankle surgery.
Coach Bruce Arians announced Tuesday that Bucannon's surgery stemmed from a "lingering" issue. Bucannon was sidelined the final three games of the 2016 season due to an ankle injury. The hybrid linebacker had previously never missed a game.
The hope is that the Bucannon is ready for the season opener. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported that Bucannon is a candidate for the physically unable to perform list, but could be ready by early September. If the 24-year-old linebacker starts the season on the PUP list, it would cost him the first six games of the 2017 season.
With Bucannon out at least through training camp, the Cards should get more practice reps for first-round linebacker Haason Reddick.