When Tip Reiman, tight end for Arizona Cardinals, was carted off the field during the third quarter, the stadium fell silent for a beat.
It happened on October 5, 2025, in the Week 5 matchupState Farm Stadium, Glendale against the Tennessee Titans. The injury was severe enough that medics opted for a stretcher‑style cart, a clear sign something was very wrong with his ankle.
Background: Reiman’s Role and Season Outlook
Before the incident, Tip Reiman had been carving out a niche as a reliable pass‑catcher and blocker in the Cardinals’ offense. Drafted in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, he posted 34 receptions for 398 yards and three touchdowns last season, earning a spot on the team’s emerging tight‑end rotation.
Coach Jonathan Gannon had hinted in preseason that Reiman would see more red‑zone targets this year. By Week 4, he was already logging double‑digit snaps on third‑down situations and had caught two touchdowns, including a crucial 12‑yard grab in a win over the Seattle Seahawks.
Injury Details and Immediate Reaction
According to Josh Weinfuss of ESPN, the injury occurred on a play where Reiman was attempting a seam route off the line of scrimmage. He landed awkwardly after a contested catch, and the audible gasp from the crowd was followed by the rush of medical personnel.
The exact nature of the damage—whether a ligament tear, a high‑ankle sprain, or a fracture—has not been disclosed. However, the fact that he needed a cart suggests it’s more than a routine sprain. "When you see a cart, you know it’s serious," Weinfuss wrote, noting that the team’s medical staff was quick to immobilize the joint.
Fans on social media expressed mixed emotions. One supporter tweeted, "Hope Tip’s okay! That looked nasty," while another wrote, "If he’s out for weeks, that’s a big blow to the offense." The contrast illustrates how tightly the fanbase is watching the tight‑end position.
Cardinals’ Injury Landscape
The injury adds to an already growing list of setbacks for Arizona. Earlier in the season, starting quarterback Kyler Murray missed two games with a hamstring strain, and defensive end Jordan Hicks was out after a neck injury. The cumulative effect is a roster that’s forced to shuffle depth charts more than anticipated.
General manager Steve Keim has been vocal about the need for “next‑man‑up” mentality. He told reporters after the game, "We have to stay ready. Injuries happen, but we’ve built a culture where everyone steps up."
Potential Impact on the Offensive Game Plan
Reiman’s absence could alter the way the Cardinals attack in the passing game. Head coach Jonathan Gannon relied on him to stretch the field and create mismatches against linebackers. If Reiman is sidelined for multiple weeks, the play‑calling staff may lean more heavily on wide receivers like DeAndre Hopkins and rookie tight end Mason Coleman.
The Cardinals also use a two‑tight‑end set in short‑yardage situations. Losing Reiman could force the team to keep a single back in the backfield, potentially limiting their running game on third and short. Analysts from the Pro Football Focus projected a 0.35 drop in expected points per drive without him, a modest yet noticeable dip.
Medical Outlook and Recovery Timeline
While the team has been tight‑lipped about specifics, Dr. Mike Mowers, the Cardinals’ head surgeon, said in a brief post‑game statement: "Tip suffered an ankle injury that will require imaging and a thorough evaluation. Our priority is his long‑term health."
Typical recovery for a high‑ankle sprain, one of the more common injuries for players in this position, ranges from three to six weeks, but a ligament tear could extend beyond eight weeks. The lack of an immediate timeline suggests doctors are waiting for MRI results before issuing a definitive prognosis.
In the meantime, the Cardinals will likely activate a practice‑squad player—perhaps Khalil Robinson, a former college standout who has been learning the system. Robinson’s quick adaptation could mitigate some of the loss, but the chemistry Reiman built over the past two seasons will be hard to replicate overnight.
Looking Ahead: What the Next Games Could Hold
Arizona faces the San Francisco 49ers in Week 6, a matchup that historically leans heavily on defensive prowess. If Reiman’s recovery lags, the Cardinals may need to emphasize their run game and short‑passing routes to keep the 49ers’ defense honest.
For the Titans, the injury is a minor footnote; they continue their pursuit of a playoff berth with a 2‑3 record. However, the game’s dynamics shifted after Reiman’s exit. The Titans’ defense, led by edge rusher Derrick Brown, managed to tighten coverage, forcing the Cardinals into a more predictable offense.
From a broader perspective, injuries like these often spark discussion about player safety protocols and the demand for more protective equipment around the ankle. The NFL’s ongoing research into next‑generation bracing could see accelerated adoption if high‑profile players such as Reiman suffer extended downtimes.
- Reiman’s injury occurred: Oct 5, 2025, Week 5.
- Location: State Farm Stadium, Glendale, Arizona.
- Immediate impact: Cart removal, no return that night.
- Potential recovery: 3‑8 weeks, pending MRI.
- Team outlook: Adjust offensive schemes, activate practice‑squad depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long might Tip Reiman be out with the ankle injury?
Doctors typically expect a high‑ankle sprain to sideline a player for three to six weeks, while a ligament tear can stretch recovery to eight weeks or more. The Cardinals are waiting on MRI results before confirming a timeline.
Who will fill Reiman’s role in the short term?
The most likely candidate is practice‑squad tight end Khalil Robinson, a former college All‑American who has been practicing with the first‑team roster. He will need to quickly learn the playbook and develop chemistry with quarterback Kyler Murray.
What does the injury mean for the Cardinals’ offense against the 49ers?
Arizona may lean more on its running backs and short‑range passing routes, reducing the deep‑down threat that Reiman provides. Expect tighter formations and a greater emphasis on the run game to control the clock.
Has the Cardinals faced similar injury challenges this season?
Yes. This is the second major offensive injury in the first five weeks, following Kyler Murray’s hamstring strain and a shoulder issue for wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. The team’s depth has been tested, prompting a “next‑man‑up” approach.
What are the broader implications for NFL player safety?
High‑profile ankle injuries renew calls for better protective gear and stricter on‑field protocols. The league’s research into advanced ankle bracing could accelerate, aiming to reduce downtime for players like Reiman.
