Arizona Cardinals: 3 positions to watch in final 2 games

Sep 18, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; A view of an Arizona Cardinals helmet during the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeat the Buccaneers 40-7. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 18, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; A view of an Arizona Cardinals helmet during the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeat the Buccaneers 40-7. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

1. The backup running back

When you think Arizona Running back the first thing that comes to mind is David Johnson, but what you don’t think of is who would step in if he went down

The Arizona Cardinals have their running back. David Johnson has made his case as the starting running back of the Cardinals for years to come. If David goes down or needs a breather who goes in? Ellington, Chris Johnson, Taylor? Well all 3 of them are heading into free agency.

The Arizona Cardinals need to solidify the backup running back. Kerwynn Williams has showed promise but mostly at the wildcat position where he has had big gains the last couple of games, and most recently a 49 yard touchdown. There are some good names in free agency but who on the roster could step in?

Who could fill the backup role? 

  • Kerwynn Wiliams – Bruce Arians has shown praise for Williams. The 3rd year running back bounces around from the practice squad to the active roster quite a bit, but when he gets the chance he shines. Williams has been used in wild cat packages and has flourished. He is averaging 16 yards a carry and has a touchdown.
  • Elijhaa Penny – The Rookie running back out of Idaho is currently on the practice squad. He showed flashes in the preseason with a 113 yard 1 TD performance against Denver. The Cardinals obviously liked what they saw so they kept him around. With his size and speed, he could really explode if given the chance.

Should the Cardinals explore the position in free agency?

Of course. As much as Williams and Penny could produce, they would be a gamble. Arizona should definitely look into resigning either Ellington or Chris Johnson, who are proven and know the system.