Arizona Cardinals: Bringing back a fullback is a good move
By Larry Brake
Elijhaa Penny, FB – 6-1, 234 pounds
Elijhaa Penny has shown determination in making the Cardinals’ roster. Penny was undrafted coming out of Idaho University. He signed in May of 2016 with Arizona but was cut in September. Arizona signed him to a reserve/future contract in January of 2017. Most of all, he got a chance to play. He made the most of that opportunity.
Penny rushed for 124 yards with two touchdowns and averaged four yards per carry. He caught four passes for 38 yards. In April of 2018, Penny signed a one year contract worth $555,000, per spotrac.com.
Penny is a running back by nature. He is changing positions to become a fullback. His physical presence is quite similar to Jim Brown.
Brown stood 6-2, weighing 232 pounds. Penny is an inch shorter and two pounds heavier. Hopefully, Penny and Johnson will be able to run the football effectively as Brown and his team did. What will Penny contribute to the offense? He will be a viable option in goal line situations. Play action will become a major push in the new Cardinals offensive scheme.
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Most of all, Penny is another lead blocker for Johnson. Whether blocking a linebacker or kicking out the edge rusher, he will help ignite the rushing attack. He will catch passes out of the backfield, too.
This training camp battle will be interesting to watch. Stay tuned as it all unfolds in July.