PHX Reporter

The Arizona Cardinals have placed their starting offensive tackles, Paris Johnson Jr. and Jonah Williams, on Injured Reserve due to knee injuries. The announcement came on Tuesday after head coach Jonathan Gannon had already confirmed that both players would miss the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Rams.

In response to these injuries, the Cardinals promoted Jackson Barton from the practice squad to fill in at right tackle for Williams. Kelvin Beachum is expected to cover left tackle duties in place of Johnson. Additionally, the team signed outside linebacker Benton Whitley from the New York Giants' practice squad to fill another roster spot.

Darren Hall, who was with the Cardinals during preseason, has been re-signed to the practice squad. Meanwhile, Charlie Heck has left for the San Francisco 49ers after signing from Arizona's practice squad.

Jonah Williams' first season with Arizona was interrupted by two right knee injuries. He initially went on Injured Reserve following an injury in the season opener against Buffalo Bills and returned mid-season only to reinjure his knee last weekend against Carolina Panthers.

Paris Johnson Jr., a young player who had not missed a game until now, suffered a left knee injury during a touchdown run by James Conner in Week 15 against New England Patriots.

Beachum stepped in for Johnson last weekend and is set to make his 11th start of this season. Barton had previously started against Detroit Lions when both Johnson and Beachum were unavailable and also replaced Williams during the game in Carolina. The Cardinals' roster includes rookie offensive tackle Christian Jones as well.

"It's unfortunate to have two starting tackles out," said quarterback Kyler Murray. "But I've got confidence in Beach, Jackson, or whoever else is in there. They've had plenty of reps, veteran guys; I have confidence in them."

With running back James Conner dealing with a knee injury and Trey Benson missing Sunday's game due to an ankle issue, these changes could pose challenges for establishing a strong running game against Rams' defensive front.