Reggie

Walker

Washington underwent an MRI Monday that apparently revealed no serious damage. “I believe he will be back for the next game but may miss several days of practice,” said agent Jordan Woy. Reggie Walker -- not Stewart Bradley -- replaced Washington in the lineup during Week 1.

Arizona didn’t deem Walker worthy of the lowest possible tender amount ($1.26 million), though he might return for closer to the vet’s minimum. Purely a special teamer, Walker recorded just 16 tackles on defense in 16 games last year.

Walker, 25, was originally not tendered as a restricted free agent, so he’s likely returning for minimum salaries in both seasons. The former Kansas State Wildcat is almost strictly a special teamer. He had 16 tackles in 2012.

Walker was injured in the second quarter on special teams. He’s a reserve inside linebacker.

Coach Ken Whisenhunt praised Reggie Walker as Daryl Washington’s (calf) fill-in against Carolina, while saying Bradley is still in transition mode after playing the first four seasons of his career in a 4-3 scheme with Philadelphia. Bradley may be needed more in Week 2 due to Washington’s strained calf, but so far early returns aren’t promising for the $25 million offseason pickup.

Paris Lenon kicks from “Mike” to “Will,” allowing Bradley to line up in his more natural position. It’s a major downgrade for the Cardinals, especially after Bradley reportedly didn’t know the defense well enough to play in Week 1. If Bradley struggles, we wouldn’t be surprised if Reggie Walker rotated in often.

Walker never developed into more than a special teamer, and he was off scholarship when the Cardinals changed coaching staffs during the offseason.

Walker was cut by the Cardinals on Friday evening. He lands back on his feet with an old friend in ex-Cardinals coach and current Chargers OC Ken Whisenhunt. Walker will spend most of his time helping out on special teams.

Walker, 27, made six starts out of desperation last season, recording three sacks and 36 tackles. He’ll return to contribute primarily on special teams.

A seventh-year pro, Walker appeared in just 11 games for the Bolts last season. He’ll try to become a core special teamer in Denver.