Ryland projects as a strong Week 2 K1 option with Arizona moving the ball enough for multiple attempts against Carolina.

Chad Ryland kicked off five times in the opener and every kickoff was returned, highlighting Arizona’s aggressive kickoff strategy and the immediate impact of the 35-yard line touchback rule on field position. Ryland’s role is central to the Cardinals’ week-to-week kickoff dynamics and fantasy relevance in return scenarios.

Ryland has backed Prater in wake of injuries, featuring in Cardinals’ kicking plans with a track record of 28-32 FGs last season, including four 50-yard makes. His Cardinals tenure contributes to long-term kick-game depth and a potential late-season option if Prater falters.

Ryland didn’t light up the stat sheet, managing just one extra point in a night where the offense stalled. His quiet evening underscores the game’s overall offensive struggle and the importance of creating scoring opportunities in practice for future Week 1 readiness, as fantasy kickers watch how many opportunities the team truly generates.

Ryland’s leg drew attention in warmups with a 72-yard display, underscoring altitude-assisted potential. While points in the game were limited, his distance hints at a weapon capable of long-range kicks in Arizona’s special-teams mix.