NFL Takeaways: 32 Truths Ahead Of Opening Day
By Erik Lambert
Aug 22, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson (31) carries the ball as San Diego Chargers inside linebacker Kavell Conner (53) defends during the first half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
The NFL preseason is at the halfway point and a number of interesting notes can be taken away about each team ahead of opening day in a couple weeks. Injuries have already begun to shape the landscape of 2015 along with more than a few controversies, but in the end its the product on the field that decides where things will end up. Whether it’s offensive or defensive standouts or lingering issues that need fixing, here is one takeaway from all 32 teams based on the results so far.
Arizona Cardinals
David Johnson looks like the missing running back they need
As good a weapon as Andre Ellington is for the Arizona Cardinals, the fact has become clear that he’s just not built to be a true workhorse type running back that the team can feed 15-25 times per game in order to take heat off Carson Palmer and the passing game. It was for that reason that they drafted Northern Iowa standout David Johnson in the 3rd round. His mix of size, speed and athleticism presented them with all the physical features they were looking for. So far in the preseason their assessment has proven correct. Against San Diego he ran the ball 13 times for 66 yards, showing consistency and toughness.
Teamed with Ellington, it could give the Cardinals one of the most diverse 1-2 punches in the game.
Next: Atlanta