Ranking 5 running backs the Arizona Cardinals can sign
By Sion Fawkes
3 - D'Ernest Johnson
We already mentioned Johnson in a previous article, but he deserves some elaboration here. If the Arizona Cardinals are looking for a fresher pair of legs, Johnson has them, as he's only totaled 141 carries for 738 yards (5.2 YPC), and 3 touchdowns in his career.
In fact, Johnson barely played in 2022, logging just seven touches (four rushing, three receiving). So why would he be listed at #3 here? You need to go back to 2021 to see just how effective Johnson is, as he snagged 100 carries that season for 534 yards and three touchdowns in 17 games, and two starts.
While you may argue Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski built his system around the run, it's also safe to say the Cards may wind up adopting elements of that system. They want to build an offense that fits quarterback Kyler Murray's strengths, and that's going to involve a lot of running plays.
And with new offensive coordinator Drew Petzing having coached under Stefanski, it's highly likely he will also seek to build a running back-friendly environment in the desert. So if Johnson comes, expect some sound numbers from fifth-year back.