Andre Ellington on returning kicks: "I love it"

Tony Crumpton by Assoc. Editor -

Former Clemson running back Andre Ellington has been replaced by David Johnson at running back for the Arizona Cardinals as Ellington had battled a knee injury in 2013, foot problems in 2014, and more knee problems last season.

Ellington is currently third in the depth chart at running back behind starter David Johnson and veteran backup Chris Johnson.

However, Ellington may still have a vital role with the team as he has been working hard trying to be the Cardinals' new kick returner in training camp.

"I love it," Ellington said via ESPN. "It gets me on the field. I feel like I have a unique asset to do it. I’m finally back to where I’d normally be, where I’m used to, but I just got to get back in shape, get my body back in a rhythm."

Ellington only has one career kick return in three NFL seasons as he took one for 21 yards back in his rookie season with the Cardinals.

"It’s kind of just getting in the groove," Ellington said. "Getting in that rhythm again. Not just a kick returner, but it’s just football in general for me. I’ve been playing injured for so long."

He had 45 rushes for 289 yards, three touchdowns and 15 receptions for 148 yards last season. For his career, he has 364 rushing attempts for 1,601 yards, nine scores and 100 receptions for 914 yards including three touchdowns.