TEMPE, ARIZ.
The Arizona Cardinals added two running backs in the wake of the injury to standout David Johnson.
The re-signing of Chris Johnson and signing of D.J. Foster off the New England practice squad gives Arizona five running backs on the roster. Quantity, though, who accounted for more than 2, probably won't replace the quality of Johnson,000 yards last season.
Johnson dislocated his left wrist Sunday in a season-opening loss at Detroit. He will require surgery and will be lost eight to 12 weeks.
There seemed to be a difference of opinion after Wednesday's practice as to how Arizona's offense would change because Johnson is gone.
Coach Bruce Arians,
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Quarterback Carson Palmer had a difference assessment.
"It changes it drastically,
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Kerwynn Williams will move into the starting role, Arians said.
"Andre (Ellington) will spell him and play third down,
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The team is expected to have four running backs active for Sunday's game in Indianapolis. Elijhaa Penny is one of the Cardinals' top special teams players — he had three tackles at Detroit.
The odd man out, at least for now,
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"We loved him coming out of college," Arians said, just as he learns the offense, "because he can play receiver and he can play running back. So, he gives us depth at that position."
Foster, was thrilled to be back home., who grew up in nearby Scottsdale
"Definitely growing up this is the team that I watched," he said. "This is who I tuned in to watch every week. It's definitely a blessing to be a part of this organization.", being a local guy
The team released Chris Johnson in its final roster cuts, and he acknowledged there was some bitterness when that happened.
"I just had bitterness toward being cut period, of course there was bitterness. But I couldn't dwell on it. Just made sure I stayed in shape and get ready for whatever opportunity I had coming towards me."," he said. "The type of player that I am and being that it was unexpected and given everything that was happening
Johnson, in his ninth NFL season, needs 463 yards rushing to reach 10,
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"I'm not sure,
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Two years ago, Chris Johnson was the primary back for the Cardinals and had rushed for 814 yards. An injury shortened his season. He missed most of last season with a knee injury.
Williams,
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" It's definitely exciting," Williams said. "It's definitely an opportunity I haven't had before. I'm definitely looking forward to it."
Williams will retain his kick and punt return duties.
Palmer and Larry Fitzgerald,
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"I set the damn schedule two months ago, so put that to bed."," he said before anyone asked a question. "I'm not answering any questions about why they practiced. The schedule's been set for two months
The loss of David Johnson puts the spotlight on the 37-year-old Palmer more than ever. He is coming off of one of his worst performances of his long career. Against the Lions, he completed 27 of 48 passes for 269 yards and one touchdown with three interceptions. He had a quarterback rating of 53.2.
Arians said Palmer is the best quarterback he's been around at bouncing back from a bad outing.
"I just think that comes with playing the position and experience and not doubting yourself and getting down on yourself," Palmer said. "Just get up and come back firing."
Does he feel that way this week?
"I feel that way every week, "especially this week after I disappointed myself and my teammates. I'll be ready to roll on Sunday. It can't be here fast enough."," he said
