The Arizona Cardinals running back situation has taken some major hits the past week and the hits kept on coming Friday. After placing starter Chris Johnson on I.R/Designated to Return, fellow running back Andre Ellington has been ruled out for Sunday's game with a turf toe injury.
Johnson and Ellington's absence means rookie David Johnson is Arizona's top running back this week. Cardinals' coach Bruce Arians has enough faith in the rookie that he told reporters on Friday that Johnson could see up to 25 touches.
While the St. Louis Rams are typically viewed as a top defense, they have struggled lately versus the run. In their past four games, St. Louis has allowed 457 rushing yards and 255 receiving yards, allowing the eighth-most fantasy points to running backs.
This is a very good matchup for Johnson and he has shown he can contribute as a three-down back, especially in this situation. Arians seems committed to making him a big part of the offense on Sunday and even if he only receives 18-20 touches, Johnson offers RB1 upside.