Cardinals begin process of replacing Ryan Williams

Cardinals running back Ryan Williams is scheduled to have surgery some time this week, meaning the search for a replacement is in full swing.

“We will continue to look for opportunities at that position,” Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt told reporters in Flagstaff Monday. “I don’t see a sense of panic at this particular time; we’re not just going to go out and get a guy today because we have to.”

The team may not add a new running back until sometime next week, after teams have cut down their rosters.

“We are looking for a back that can do a little bit of everything,” Whisenhunt said. “Obviously help on third down and be a good first and second down back as well.”

The Cardinals did sign running back William Powell Monday afternoon, but the Kansas State product is not likely to have a role with the team once training camp ends.

For now, though, Whisenhunt says they are in no rush to sign anyone else.

“That’s not something we are going to do overnight,” Whisenhunt said. “We are going to do some research, we’re going to try and get the right fit.”

The loss of Williams brings an opportunity for young players, such as Alfonso Smith, to step up.

“That’s why you’re constantly trying to develop young players,” Whisenhunt said. “Alfonso has been working hard for a year and a half now to get an opportunity and we’ll be able to see how he handles that.”

No matter who fills the hole Williams left, Whisenhunt is confident the team will find someone.

“We’re going to get a back in here that can help us, but we’re still going to be looking for the right fit,” he said.

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