Former Northwestern Running Back Claimed by Cardinals

Former Northwestern running back Evan Hull didn't have to wait long for another NFL opportunity.

Just days after being waived by the Houston Texans, Hull has been claimed off waivers by the Arizona Cardinals, giving the former Wildcat another chance to compete for a roster spot as training camp and preseason continue.

For Hull, the opportunity comes at an important point in his professional career.

Before reaching the NFL, Hull established himself as one of the most productive running backs in Northwestern history. His versatility as both a runner and receiver made him one of the Big Ten's most complete offensive weapons. 

His production earned him national attention and eventually led to the Indianapolis Colts selecting him in the fifth round of the 2023 NFL Draft with the 176th overall pick.

Unfortunately, injuries slowed the beginning of his professional career.

A preseason knee injury forced Hull to miss his entire rookie season before he eventually returned and spent time with both the spent time with the Indianapolis Colts, Pittsburgh Steelers and Houston Texans.

Across six NFL appearances, he has recorded one rushing attempt while adding six receptions for 33 receiving yards.

Although those numbers don't jump off the page, they don't fully reflect Hull's potential or the versatility that made him such a productive player at Northwestern. 

Throughout both college and the NFL, coaches have praised his football IQ, pass-catching ability and versatility, traits that continue to make him an intriguing option for teams looking to strengthen their running back depth.

Now, Hull gets another fresh start in Arizona.

The Cardinals clearly saw enough value to claim him off waivers, giving Hull another opportunity to prove he belongs on an active NFL roster rather than waiting for another free-agent opportunity. 

The Cardinals selected former Notre Dame standout Jeremiyah Love earlier this year, creating even more competition in Arizona's running back room. However, Hull's immediate goal isn't necessarily winning a starting job. Instead, every practice and preseason snap becomes an opportunity to prove he belongs on an NFL roster.

Training camp often serves as the deciding factor for players fighting for backup roles, special teams responsibilities and roster depth. Hull's experience, combined with his ability to contribute as both a runner and receiver, could help him carve out a role behind Arizona's established backs.

Even if he ultimately doesn't make the Cardinals' final 53-man roster, a strong preseason could put him on the radar of other organizations looking to add running back depth before Week 1.

For Northwestern, Hull's signing is another reminder of the program's continued presence in professional football.

His resilience has defined much of his football journey, and after quickly finding another opportunity following his release in Houston, Hull now has another chance to prove he can contribute at the NFL level.

With preseason starting soon, every carry, reception and special teams snap becomes another chance for Hull to prove he deserves a spot on Arizona's 53-man roster or catch the attention of another NFL team looking for dependable backfield depth before Week 1.