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Anyone who has played football will tell you that the sport creates brotherhood among teammates.
So when Arizona Cardinals tight end Maxx Williams left Sunday’s 17-10 victory over the San Francisco 49ers in the final first-half practice, the Cardinals emptied their side of the pitch as the whole team went to show their love and gave Williams words of encouragement before being whisked away in a cart.
“The gravity of the situation for a guy like Maxx (is disheartening), I mean Maxx has been through hell but personally he’s a close friend of mine and I know a lot of guys on this team who love him. and respect him, ”defensive end Zach Allen said after the game.
“It’s definitely a tough game, it was a tough game, but I think the severity of it was, you know, pretty scary. (I) just pray for him, wishing the best for him but the knowing, he’ll come back stronger. “
Williams’ status has yet to be determined for the future, although his departure on a cart with what appeared to be a serious knee injury is usually not a good sign. Prior to Sunday, Williams had been the focal point as a safety blanket for quarterback Kyler Murray, racking up 15 receptions for 179 yards and one touchdown this season. He was injured on a play where he gained 14 yards and fought for extra yards.
After Williams came out, the Cardinals’ offense stalled. They were unable to convert from a 61-yard field goal as time passed to complete the second quarter, as the team only gained 30 yards in their next 20 games (four drives).
Head coach Kliff Kingsbury said: “It’s tough. It’s hard. He’s a big part of that attack, seeing what he’s been doing in previous weeks when he’s healthy. “
When asked if Williams’ exit had an impact on the team, Murray said: “You never want that to happen. He’s a brother of yours and the way it’s been. for him is very unhappy. (He had a) very good season and then just do a play … football is coming, you can’t change it, you really can’t do anything, I don’t know what he would have could have done differently.
“We’re all behind him (and) praying for him. But to answer your question, I guess in a way (it took its toll). He’s in the majority of our rooms; he’s a great part of our attack. “
Although Williams will be missed, the sad truth is the show has to go on. Football will be played with or without Williams from the tight end, and the Cardinals are ready to win no matter who is on the pitch.
“It’s the NFL, the next player,” said wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. “Maxx is definitely a big part of that attack. But that’s why (GM) Steve Keim and these guys go out and find players who can fill that role. I hate what happened to Maxx; Maxx is my guy. , but it’s the next man up (mentality) and I think Kliff and these guys will do a good job preparing for the next tight end. “
While the team are likely waiting for Williams’ injury status before making any moves, players such as Darrell Daniels (when he returns from the COVID roster), Demetrius Harris and Ross Travis are poised to fill in any gaps that Williams left. .
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