Cardinals place RB Bam Knight, WR Baccellia on IR; sign Brooks, Cox to roster
The Arizona Cardinals have taken a significant hit to their backfield, placing running back Bam Knight on injured reserve due to an ankle injury, effectively ending his season.
Why it matters: Knight's placement on injured reserve is emblematic of the Cardinals' struggles with injuries this season, particularly in the running back position.
- With Knight joining James Conner and Trey Benson on injured reserve, the team's depth has been severely tested as they navigate the final weeks of the season.
- This situation could further complicate the Cardinals' offensive strategy as they attempt to maintain their ground game.
What’s new: Knight's injury occurred during a disappointing 40-20 loss to the Houston Texans, where he had been playing a pivotal role in Arizona's offense.
- In his limited time this season, Knight amassed 82 carries for 269 yards and four rushing touchdowns, alongside 22 receptions for 160 yards and one touchdown catch, showcasing his versatility.
Between the lines: The loss of Knight underscores the ongoing challenges the Cardinals face in establishing a reliable rushing attack.
- Emari Demercado and Michael Carter are likely to shoulder more responsibilities in the backfield moving forward, but neither has extensive experience as lead backs in the NFL.
- The Cardinals will need to adapt their offensive scheme, possibly leaning more heavily on the passing game or creative run designs to mitigate the impact of their depleted roster.
What to watch: As the Cardinals make roster adjustments, keep an eye on how they utilize Jalen Brooks, recently signed from the practice squad, and the re-signed Patrick McMorris.
- Brooks's addition could provide a much-needed spark to the receiving corps, especially with Andre Baccellia also placed on injured reserve due to a neck injury.
The big picture: The Cardinals’ injury woes reflect a broader trend in the league where teams are increasingly challenged by player health and availability.
- With three running backs now sidelined, the Cardinals are forced to reassess not only their immediate strategies but also their long-term plans for building a resilient roster.
The bottom line: As the Cardinals grapple with these setbacks, they must remain adaptable, leveraging their remaining talent while looking to future seasons for a more sustainable foundation.
- With the playoffs out of reach, Arizona's focus may shift to evaluating younger players and setting goals for next year.
