The Arizona Cardinals are facing significant challenges in their backfield following injuries to key players. With James Conner already out for the season, the situation deteriorated further when starting running back Trey Benson sustained a knee injury during a recent game.
Trey Benson’s Injury Impact
Trey Benson will undergo surgery to repair his meniscus, sidelining him for four to six weeks. This injury occurred at the end of the Cardinals’ narrow 23-20 defeat against the Seattle Seahawks last Thursday.
Benson has been placed on injured reserve, meaning his earliest return would be in Week 10. This injury opens new opportunities for the remaining running backs on the roster.
Running Back Options for the Cardinals
With Benson out, the Cardinals will rely on other running backs, namely Michael Carter, Emari Demercado, and Bam Knight. The decision for fantasy players is whether to start Emari Demercado or Michael Carter.
Current Depth Chart
- Emari Demercado
- Michael Carter
- Bam Knight
Demercado scored a touchdown against Seattle, showcasing his capability. He has regained his position at the top of the depth chart for running backs.
Future Running Back Rotation
The Cardinals may adopt a few strategies for their running back rotation going forward. One potential scenario is having Demercado as the primary back with Carter as his backup. Bam Knight could assume a role focused on passing situations. However, it’s likely that Demercado and Carter will share carries, with Demercado receiving the majority of the third-down and passing-down opportunities.
This arrangement could result in Demercado having more chances to contribute in both running and passing situations. If Carter starts performing well, the team might lean heavily on him as well. For fantasy football enthusiasts, choosing Demercado appears to be a more promising option.
Conclusion
The injury to Trey Benson creates an opportunity for Emari Demercado and Michael Carter. As the Cardinals navigate their running back woes, monitoring both players’ performances will be vital for fantasy managers seeking the best options.
