Arizona Cardinals running back Beanie Wells was placed on the injured reserve on Wednesday, but is the team's player designated to return, according to NFL reporter Adam Caplan. That means Wells, who has been limited with turf toe, will be out until at least late November.
Beanie Wells eligible to play again 11/25 vs Rams. Misses MIA, STL, BUF, MIN, SF, GB and ATL games. Plus bye.
— Mike Sando, ESPN.com (@espn_nfcwest) September 26, 2012
Wells has 29 rushing attempts for 76 yards this season.
The decision places the running back duties heavily on backup Ryan Williams, who is playing in his first season out of Virginia Tech after missing his true rookie season because of a knee injury. Williams had a breakout game in Week 3 against the Philadelphia Eagles, taking 13 carries for 83 yards. It was a fine recovery from a late-game fumble one week prior that almost cost Arizona a victory at New England.
Williams has 31 carries for 105 yards this season.
Yesterday's roster moves alluded to Wells's status. Despite having LaRod Stephens-Howling and William Powell behind Williams on the depth chart, Arizona signed running back Alfonso Smith and fullback Korey Hall.