Entering the 2012 season, the Arizona Cardinals have their two top running backs recovering from knee surgeries. Ryan Williams lost his rookie season with a torn patella tendon. It was a significant injury. Beanie Wells had offseason knee surgery as well after a 2011 campaign in which he played the entire season hurt.
It turns out that his surgery was a bit more complicated than previously thought, as noted by Kent Somers.
It should be noted that the plan all along was for both Wells and Williams to not do much before training camp, but there is some reason for worry. Here is what Somers wrote about his conversation with Wells:So, he was asked, what were the details of the surgery? "Just a scope, cleaned things up."
He was asked if meniscus was involved.
"Naw, not really meniscus. It was a little more complicated."
Asked later if he had microfracture surgery, Wells smiled as he walked into the locker room.
I don't like the sound of that.
maybe it is less than that and Wells is being coy. But if he isn't, and he did have microfracture surgery, that would be a big concern. It is uncertain how effective either back could be coming back from those injuries. Granted, if they share the workload, and LaRod Stephens-Howling is utilized more in the offense (which, in the opinion of this writer really should happen), the concern should be mitigated a bit.
However, without limiting carries for either player, their effectiveness could be hindered.
You might say that it won't matter because of the pass-heavy offense that the Cardinals like to run. Still, you hate to see this situation come up.
Maybe I'm too concerned. what do the rest of you think? Is there cause to be concerned? Does the running back situation worry you at all?
Keep up with Cardinals news and opinions when you are not on the site. Follow Revenge of the Birds on Twitter at @revengeofbirds and "like" us on Facebook. You can follow me individually at @senorjessroot.