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The Arizona Cardinals are moving on from running back Ryan Williams. In a cost cutting move, the often injured Williams was released, according to Darren Urban via Twitter.
Many had speculated that Williams would get one last shot to crack Arizona’s backfield rotation now that he’s fully healthy, but Urban pointed out that a depth chart ascension was unlikely.
Williams’ didn’t have scary competition to compete with in 2014, as recently signed veteran Jonathan Dwyer doesn’t hold a candle to Williams’ athleticism and potential, while second-year back Stepfan Taylor is a slow plodder.
However, Williams has struggled mightily to stay healthy ever since entering the league and despite being healthy in 2013, didn’t show the coaching staff enough to earn the right to have a single carry last season.
Williams’ NFL problems stem from a disastrous rookie season that ended in the preseason due to a ruptured patellar tendon. Williams missed the entire 2011 season and admittedly was never the same. However, Williams did make a full physical recovery, but later said he wasn’t mentally right following the devastating injury.
The after effects of the knee injury caused Williams to be tentative and negatively impacted his production. It was a shoulder injury that sent him on injured reserve in 2012, though, leaving him with just 58 career carries and a paltry 2.8 yards per carry to his name.
While Williams certainly was a bust in Arizona and faces a fairly long road to finding himself with a big offensive role anywhere else again, he’s just 24 and by all accounts is as healthy as he’s been since he entered the league. Blessed with a terrific blend of size, speed and power, Williams still has the ability and upside on paper to warrant someone taking a chance on him. Look for him to latch on with someone else for preseason action as he tries to continue his playing career.
