The Arizona Cardinals think rookie running back Ryan Williams tore a patella tendon in his right knee.
That was the preliminary word from coach Ken Whisenhunt following the Cardinals' 28-20 preseason defeat at Green Bay on Friday night. Williams would miss the 2011 season if that were the case. He would then face a grueling rehabilitation.
This injury could lead to more playing time for LaRod Stephens-Howling. The Cardinals have used Stephens-Howling increasingly over the past couple seasons, sometimes with three wide receivers and another running back.
Fantasy Impact:
Beanie Wells is going to have his chance to own the Cardinals running game without having to look over his shoulder for the talented rookie. Stephens-Howling gets a boost as he enters primary backup territory and could eventually find himself starting given Wells' injury history.