Raising Zona
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Arizona Cardinals could use veteran running back

By Jim Koch

Jan 22, 2017; Foxborough, MA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers running back DeAngelo Williams (34) runs the ball against New England Patriots strong safety Patrick Chung (23) during the second quarter in the 2017 AFC Championship Game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 22, 2017; Foxborough, MA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers running back DeAngelo Williams (34) runs the ball against New England Patriots strong safety Patrick Chung (23) during the second quarter in the 2017 AFC Championship Game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports /
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Running back David Johnson has been a workhorse for the Arizona Cardinals, but some veteran insurance behind him makes sense

If recent reports are true, a veteran running back could very well be on the Arizona Cardinals’ shopping list. It appears that the front office may have had interest in LeGarrette Blount, recently signed by the Philadelphia Eagles. While they missed out on the physical Blount, there are some other intriguing options.

Chris Johnson, a Cardinal for the past two seasons, is still seeking a job. After being an ironman throughout his career, ” CJ2K ” missed 17 out of a possible 32 games (not including two playoff contests) since joining the Cards. He has played well for the club when healthy, so a return to the team is a possibility.

Even at 34-years old, DeAngelo Williams remains an effective runner. The free agent did undergo knee surgery last year as a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was able to rebound from it however, turning in a couple of solid performances at the end of the season.

Rashad Jennings, another available free agent, is coming off of a down year. The 32-year old did play well for the New York Giants in 2015, tallying 1,159 yards from scrimmage and four touchdowns. His pass-catching ability makes him a good fit for Arizona’s offense.

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James Starks could be a sleeper candidate. He suffered a concussion last December, not in a game but in a car crash. If he receives medical clearance, his size (6’2″, 218) and skill-set make him appealing.

Though Ronnie Hillman has been in the league since 2012, he’s still just 25-years old. His best performance was as a Denver Bronco two years ago, when he ran for 863 yards and seven scores. He’s kind of on the small side (5’10”, 195), but is young enough to have some effective football left in him.

Besides David Johnson, Kerwyn Williams is the only Cardinal back on the roster with pro experience. Over four campaigns (three with Arizona), Williams has gained 545 yards on 98 carries with three touchdowns. Elijhaa Penny has yet to play in an NFL regular-season game, and T.J. Logan was a fifth-round pick in last month’s draft.

The knee injury David Johnson suffered in last year’s finale is proof that the Cards’ star is far from invincible. Bringing in an experienced back, in case of disaster, would be an intelligent move. Let’s hope management agrees.

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