Arizona Cardinals GM Steve Keim: Andre Ellington has to get "stronger"

Arizona Cardinals general manager Steve Keim has expressed his belief that running back Andre Ellington will have to get "stronger" to endure the rigours of a full NFL season.

The 26-year-old was named as the club's feature back for the 2014 campaign and had a solid start to the year before injuries slowed his production to a meagre 3.3 yards per attempt, while his season finished prematurely due to sports hernia surgery.

"When I went back and looked at some of the cut-ups, you can't deny his skills - his feet, his acceleration - he's got dynamic skills and game-changing speed," Keim told reporters.

"That being said, it remains to be seen whether he can stay healthy for a full season. To me, that's why this off-season is so big for him.

"He's got to get bigger and stronger in the weight room and he's got to prove he can stay healthy through a full 16-game season."

Ellington recorded 660 rushing yards and three touchdowns for the Cardinals in the 2014 season.