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.
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.