Arizona Cardinals release pair of running backs

The Arizona Cardinals made a couple of moves on Friday to clear the running back situation a bit

There were just too many running backs on the roster.  The Arizona Cardinals on Friday released two guys who at one time had shots to make major contributions to the team.

On Friday, the Cardinals released Marion Grice and Robert Hughes.  Now the Cardinals are still left with five running backs on the roster.

In 2014 both players were on the regular season roster and in 2015 both spent time on the practice squad.  Neither though could crack the regular 53-man roster given the talent already on it.  Neither of the moves come as much of a surprise.

Grice was signed in 2014 when the Cardinals were thin at running back.  A local product out of Arizona State, many applauded the move to bring Grice in.  He never panned out though to what many expected. Hughes, out of Notre Dame, had a nice college career rushing for 1,392 yards.

Unfortunately for both, this move I believe more represents the depth the Cardinals have a the running back position.  Chris Johnson just recently re-signed after coming down to a decision between the Cards and the Miami Dolphins.   He decided on the Cardinals for less money and a chance to win.

The Cardinals also have David Johnson, who will be entering his second-season out of Northern Iowa.  He emerged as the starter once Chris Johnson went down with a season-ending injury in 2015. The Cardinals also have Andre Ellington, Stepfan Taylor, and Kerwynn Williams on the roster.

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The cuts may not end with Grice and Hughes though.  Taylor and Williams are likely fighting for one spot come July and August in training camp.  Also don’t rule out the Cardinals picking up back somewhere late in the NFL Draft or as an undrafted free agent.  If there is one thing we’ve learned about Cards general manager Steve Keim is that he never stops looking for talent no matter the position.

This move also gives Grice and Hughes to catch on with another team before OTA’s and mini camps start.  Both should find work elsewhere. Unfortunately there was just no room for them in Arizona.