The Arizona Cardinals' running game has taken another hit, leaving fans and fantasy managers scrambling. Just weeks after James Conner's season-ending foot injury, rookie Trey Benson joined him on injured reserve Wednesday with a knee issue—a meniscus tear requiring surgery. Benson, who stepped up as the lead back, now faces 4 to 6 weeks sidelined, his earliest return not until Week 10. This abrupt shift thrusts Michael Carter and Emari Demercado into the spotlight, turning what was a promising depth chart into a makeshift committee.
Michael Carter, elevated from the practice squad just last week, brings a familiar face to the mix. The former Jet, who logged 131 yards and a touchdown in limited 2024 action for Arizona, seems poised for early-down work. Indeed, reports suggest the Cardinals could lean on him as the primary ball-carrier against the Titans on Sunday. Carter's one carry for a yard in his debut against Seattle doesn't dazzle, but with the roster thin—Bam Knight as a distant third—expect more snaps. However, his history of bouncing between squads raises questions about sustaining a lead role.
Emari Demercado, meanwhile, offers a change-of-pace vibe that's already paid off. In that same Seahawks loss, he snagged a touchdown reception on two catches for 13 yards, plus eight rushing yards on two attempts. Demercado's 2023-24 stats—507 rushing yards and three scores over 27 games—highlight his versatility, especially on third downs and in the passing game. Now, with Benson out, he'll likely see expanded carries inside, blending power with his receiving chops. Still, splitting time with Carter might cap his ceiling, a frustrating dynamic for a unit already reeling.
Moreover, the Cardinals' coaching staff, led by Jonathan Gannon, emphasized a committee approach in recent updates, but details remain fuzzy. Demercado played 26 snaps to Carter's four last outing, hinting at his edge in certain packages. Yet, as Arizona preps for Tennessee, the real test comes in execution—can these two stabilize a backfield plagued by misfortune? It's a scenario that underscores the NFL's unforgiving nature.
In the end, this pivot invites broader thoughts on how injuries reshape team identities overnight.