Chris “Beanie” Wells signs with Arizona Cardinals

The first-round 2009 NFL draft picks keep getting signed up, and Beanie Wells’ signature for the Arizona Cardinals is one of the more high-profile to come down the pipe this week given his chance to start at running back this season.

Wells, who was signed on a four year deal with an option for a fifth for an undisclosed amount, will now report to training camp to begin his official positional battle with Tim Hightower to take over the starting running back left vacant by the departed Edgerrin James.

Wells struggled with foot, hamstring and concussion injuries throughout his final year at Ohio State and continues to have durability queries hanging over him, but nevertheless his running back fundamentals are very strong, including an impressive stiff arm move and downhill running power.

The other knock on Wells has been his lack of receiving numbers, though with Arizona’s high-powered vertical attacking options, that’s not so much of a concern for newly pleased Cardinal fans.