The Arizona Cardinals' running game took another brutal hit this week, with second-year back Trey Benson landing on injured reserve after knee surgery. Benson, who had stepped up as the primary starter following James Conner's season-ending injury, underwent arthroscopic procedures on his meniscus just days after exiting a game early. Reports indicate he'll miss at least four to six weeks, leaving the team scrambling once more in a position already depleted.
Indeed, the timing couldn't be worse. Conner, the veteran workhorse, went down in Week 3, thrusting Benson into the spotlight where he showed flashes of promise with his explosive runs. Now, with both top options sidelined, Arizona's coaching staff faces a patchwork solution. Emari Demercado emerges as the likely lead back, having logged third-down duties and pass-catching roles in recent outings—think 12 touches for 45 yards in his last appearance. Behind him, Michael Carter could see increased snaps, bringing his quick cuts and receiving skills from stints with other teams, while Bam Knight lurks as a deeper option with raw power but limited experience.
However, this shuffle raises real questions about the Cardinals' depth planning. The backfield, once a strength under Jonathan Gannon, now feels exposed, especially against upcoming foes like the Titans who boast a stout front seven. Demercado's versatility helps, sure, but his slight frame might wear down without rotation. Carter, for his part, has been a journeyman, flashing potential yet never fully seizing a role—will Arizona be the place? And Knight? He's unproven, a practice squad type thrust into the fray.
Moreover, fantasy managers are left in the lurch, dumping waiver wires for these backups amid the chaos. The Cardinals' offense, reliant on Kyler Murray's mobility, might lean heavier on the pass, but that risks further imbalance. It's a tough spot, no doubt, as injuries pile up in a league that punishes the unprepared.
Yet, as Week 5 looms, how Arizona rebuilds this unit could define their wildcard push—or expose deeper flaws in roster construction.
