We all know about the Arizona Cardinals having a rumored need at running back. When rookie Ryan Williams went down with a season-ending knee injury, it made the running back position go from being a talent-laden group to a suspect position in depth.
With NFL roster cuts coming on Tuesday, it is rumored that the Chicago Bears will be releasing Chester Taylor, as they already have Matt Forte and Marion Barber to foot the load. The Arizona Cardinals should definitely look into his availability.
Ken Whisenhunt wisely is not saying that the team is in dire straits. He is showing confidence in the personnel he has, particularly in Alfonso Smith, who seems to be the guy who will fill Williams' role. He said this:
"I don't want to hit the panic button because I've been pleased with what I've seen out of Alfonso. That's what this game's all about. That's what building a team's all about. You have to have players step up and fit into a role when they get that opportunity."
With that being said, if in fact Taylor becomes available, he would be a good fit here. He is a very good pass catcher. He can block. He can make guys miss once he has the ball in his hands. He is 31 years old, but he would be able to provide a veteran presence in the backfield, much like Jason Wright did in these past couple of years.
The team is likely going to carry four running backs. William Powell would be the fourth guy right now. Taylor would be much better. Of all the possible guys that could become available, he is probably the very best match based on the role he would fill.
That's my take on it. I would still use Smith and see what he can do. Obviously the coaching staff is high on him. But when you could have Chester Taylor as opposed to William Powell, whom would you rather have?