As much as the move to sign James Conner is applauded, especially on getting him for just a one-year deal, the Arizona Cardinals shouldn’t consider themselves done at the position. With the NFL draft coming up and still some free agents out there, they need to ensure they have a continuous healthy running back room.
This isn’t a commentary on how it is believed Conner and Chase Edmonds can perform. It is a commentary on health and depth.
The Cardinals have been caught red-handed more than once over the last five to seven years with lack of depth at running back. Lose one guy, alright. Lose that second guy, uh-oh.
Conner has been oft-injured but well worth the risk given the way he performs when healthy. Edmonds can’t be an everyday guy for long. If the chores end up getting left to him, then eventually there are greater risks to having no one behind him.
Sure you want to say the Cardinals have Jonathan Ward and Eno Benjamin. Well, I’m not sold on the idea the Cardinals are comfortable with him. Same with Benjamin, the 7th-round draft pick out of Arizona State in 2020 that never saw a touch last season.
It would behoove the Cardinals to be prepared for anything. Get yourself depth at running back. They want us to believe this is more than a passing offense? Prove it.
If the Cardinals decide not to take a back in the draft and roll with what they currently have will scream high risk. The Cardinals haven’t exactly remained the healthiest teams over the last several years.
That also doesn’t mean reach for one just because there is a need to add depth. Add a back because it makes sense and a guy that can a few reps a game.
Getting those few reps a game prepares said player for the eventuality he gets called on at some point in a heavier role, even if just for a game or two. Remember, it’s a 17-game season in 2021 for the first time ever.