GLENDALE – The Arizona Cardinals running back room has become very shallow in record time. After losing James Conner and Trey Benson for an extended period of time, Arizona will be without third-string running back Emari Demercado for Week 7 vs. the Green Bay Packers. The Cardinals only had two healthy half backs on the roster in Bam Knight and Michael Carter.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The team addressed this issue on Saturday, by elevating D’Ernest Johnson from the practice squad for Sunday’s game.
Aug 23, 2025; Landover, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Ravens running back D’Ernest Johnson (30) runs the ball down the field in the first quarter against the Washington Commanders at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jordyn Harris-Imagn Images
Johnson career up to Sunday’s game:
The 29-year-old running back went undrafted in 2019, but has gone on to have an extended NFL career. Johnson spent four years with the Cleveland Browns, only starting two games during that span. In 2021, he would have his best year rushing for 534 yards and reaching the end zone three times.
Jan 5, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back D’Ernest Johnson (2) runs into Indianapolis Colts cornerback Jaylon Jones (40) during the second half at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-Imagn Images
After his stint in Cleveland, Johnson would sign with the Jacksonville Jaguars and spent the past two seasons with the team. He was used more as a receiving back with Jacksonville, before not being resigned after the 2024 season.
Johnson would play with the Baltimore Ravens in this year’s preseason, but didn’t make the cut for the 53-man roster. The Cardinals signed Johnson on September, 29th, just before Benson was placed on injury reserve for a knee injury.
Can Cardinals defense limit Packers explosive plays in Week 7?
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
