The Arizona Cardinals want to re-sign running back Kenyan Drake this offseason after the second half of the season he had for the team following his trade to Arizona. However, that might not happen, as he seeks a big payday.
If they are unable to bring Drake back, they will still likely try and sign a veteran running back in free agency, whether or not they trade David Johnson.
Who are some possibilities if Drake does not return?
Carlos Hyde
Hyde is 28 years old and rushed for more than 1,000 yards in 2019. It was the first time he did so in his career. He can also catch the ball. He only had 10 catches in 2019 for the Houston Texans, but he had 59 in 2017 for the San Francisco 49ers. Arizona Sports 98.7 FM’s John Gambadoro says Hyde is a potential target for the Cardinals and he would fit. His projected market value is a two-year deal worth about $6 million. He could be a lead back for the team.
Deandre Washington
Washington would not be a lead back candidate. His career high in rushing attempts was last season, when he had 108 rushing attempts. He has always been a change-of-pace back. He can do a little in the passing game, having twice caught more than 30 passes in limited playing time. He was coached in college by Kliff Kingsbury, so he would fit in the offense. He would not cost much.
Jordan Howard
After being a lead back for three seasons for the Chicago Bears, he became a part-time player in 2019 for the Philadelphia Eagles. His production has steadily declined each season. He rushed for more than 1,300 yards as a rookie and that fell to 525 yards last season. He averaged 4.4 yards per attempt last season, his highest average since his rookie season. He is a year younger than Drake.
LeSean McCoy
McCoy is now 32 years old and only had 101 carries in 2019 but averaged 4.6 yards per carry and had 28 receptions. It was his highest per-carry average since 2016.
While Kliff Kingsbury prefers to ride one back heavily offensively, McCoy could be that guy sometimes or be a good complementary back if David Johnson remains on the roster.
Dion Lewis
Lewis was a bust in Tennessee as a lead back after signing a big contract two seasons ago and was recently cut. However, the skill set would fit for the Cardinals. He would actually fit nicely with a back like Kenyan Drake as receiving option if David Johnson is traded.
Listen to the latest from Cards Wire’s Jess Root on his podcast, Rise Up, See Red. Subscribe on Apple podcasts or Stitcher Radio.
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