The 2025 fantasy football season has been marred by significant injuries, impacting teams and players alike. One notable case is Trey Benson of the Arizona Cardinals, who faces questions about his return following a knee injury.
Trey Benson’s Injury Update
Initially, Benson was poised to become the Cardinals’ primary running back after James Conner suffered a season-ending injury in Week 3. In his debut as the starter, Benson carried the ball eight times for 35 yards and successfully caught five passes for another 19 yards. His performance showcased his potential to lead the backfield.
However, his tenure as the lead running back was short-lived. Benson sustained a knee injury that required surgery to repair his meniscus, landing him on injured reserve. As the Cardinals are on a bye in Week 8, he cannot be activated until Week 10 at the earliest.
Projected Return and Impact
- Benson is expected to return in Week 10, barring any setbacks.
- He remains the only Cardinals running back averaging over 3.5 yards per carry.
- In 2025, Benson ranked as the RB3 in creating yards per touch at 5.31, indicating his effectiveness despite a struggling offensive line.
Once healthy, Benson is expected to reclaim his starting position. His ability to produce strong plays makes him a valuable asset and a potential weekly RB2 in fantasy lineups. Furthermore, the Cardinals are likely incentivized to utilize him as they evaluate their offensive strategy, especially since they could part ways with Conner this offseason for a modest cap hit.
Considerations for Fantasy Managers
Fantasy managers should keep an eye on Benson’s recovery. Some players may have dropped him due to his injury status, making him a potential waiver wire pick-up for those looking to strengthen their rosters ahead of his anticipated return.
Be sure to check El-Balad for updates on lineups and injury reports as the season progresses. Ultimately, Benson’s return can impact not only his own value but also the overall dynamics of the Cardinals’ offense in the latter half of the 2025 season.
