Rookie David Johnson in line for first career start
The resurgent season of running back Chris Johnson might be derailed for a bit after a helmet to the side of his left knee Sunday left him with a contusion and possible missed time. The Cardinals might also be missing backup Andre Ellington, who suffered a turf toe on the same possession as Johnson’s injury.
There is no official timetable for either’s return, coach Bruce Arians said Monday, but rookie David Johnson looks like the starter for now and “I have all the confidence in the world in him starting,” Arians said. (azcardinals.com)
Nerdy Football Analysis: David Johnson has been given the “rookie treatment” by old-school coach Arians due to ball security and pass-blocking issues. However, he has proven to be a big-play threat just about every time he touches the ball (eight all-purpose touchdowns on 76 touches as a runner, receiver or returner). If CJ2K and Ellington are both ruled out for next week, the rookie should be considered a high-upside RB2 against a Rams defense that is starting to fade.
