While the Arizona Cardinals await the return of running back Andre Ellington, adding another weapon to an already great offense, head coach Bruce Arians said on Friday that Chris Johnson remains Arizona's starting running back.
Just a week ago, fans were hoping David Johnson would take some carries away from Johnson after he became the first rookie with a rushing, receiving and return touchdown in just two weeks. But the Cardinals committed themselves even more to the running back formerly known as CJ2K, giving him 22 carries.
Johnson thrived with the workload, rushing for 110 yards and two touchdowns against the San Francisco 49ers, while adding 40 receiving yards for good measure. Johnson may have not looked as explosive as he used to be, but Arizona's offensive line opened running lanes for him and he still had enough burst and vision to make the play.
Ellington is a game-time decision for Sunday's game, but even if he plays it seems there will not be as large of a role for him. Arians seems committed to making Johnson the featured back of this offense, though it's reasonable to question how long that will last.
This is a very attractive matchup for Johnson, facing a St. Louis Rams defense that has allowed the fifth-most points to running backs this season. He makes for a fine RB2 during this week, while Ellington should be out of your lineups if he is active.