Cardinals’ Trey Benson Takes Over as RB1 Following James Conner’s Season-Ending Injury

September 2025 — In a shocking turn of events, the Arizona Cardinals have been forced to make significant adjustments to their running back lineup.

Veteran James Conner has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2025 season due to a severe ankle injury that will require surgery.

This unfortunate news has elevated second-year running back Trey Benson to the role of the team’s new lead back.

Head coach Jonathan Gannon has voiced strong confidence in Benson’s ability to step up to the challenge.

“I’m fully confident in Trey, I really am,” Gannon stated.

“I think the more he plays, the more comfortable you see him getting, and the better he’s going to be.”

This endorsement sets the stage for Benson to showcase his skills and prove his worth as the primary ball carrier for the Cardinals.

A Look at the Numbers So Far

Though the season is still in its early stages, Benson has already demonstrated flashes of efficiency and versatility that make his promotion to RB1 less surprising.

In three games this season, he has carried the ball 21 times for 125 rushing yards, averaging an impressive 6.

0 yards per carry.

Additionally, he has contributed in the passing game, catching 8 passes for 45 receiving yards.

Despite limited opportunities thus far, Benson has made the most of his chances, providing the offense with a solid foundation to build upon as they adjust to his new role.

Conner’s premature exit comes after he had accumulated 95 rushing yards on 32 carries, along with one touchdown, and 8 receptions for 38 yards and another score before being placed on injured reserve.

Challenges & Opportunities

The transition from a secondary role to that of a bellcow back presents both promise and pressure for Benson.

As he takes on this increased workload, several factors will determine his success:

Workload Increase: Benson will now be expected to carry a heavier load, with fewer opportunities to rotate or rest.This adjustment will test his stamina and resilience over the course of the season.
Consistency Matters: While his current average of 6.0 yards per carry is promising, sustaining that level of performance against tougher defenses will be a significant challenge.
Passing Game Involvement: Benson’s ability to catch passes out of the backfield will be crucial, especially in third-down or check-down situations.His versatility as a runner and receiver will be essential for the Cardinals’ offensive strategy.
Team Support & Blocking: His success will largely depend on how well the offensive line can create running lanes and how the coaching staff schemes around his strengths and weaknesses.Effective blocking will be critical in maximizing his potential.

Quarterback Kyler Murray has also expressed his confidence in Benson, stating that he has “ultimate confidence” in him and the other backs stepping into larger roles.

This support from the team’s leader will be vital as Benson adjusts to his new responsibilities.

Adjusting to Conner’s Absence

The Cardinals’ offense must adapt not only to the loss of Conner’s production but also to his leadership in the locker room.

Conner’s experience and presence were invaluable, and his absence will be felt both on and off the field.

The team will need to rally together to fill this void and maintain their competitive edge.

Trey Benson’s opportunity to shine has come under urgent circumstances.

The Cardinals will lean heavily on him to sustain offensive balance and relieve pressure from their passing attack.

How well he answers that call may well define Arizona’s rushing identity for the remainder of the season.

With the spotlight now on Benson, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he adapts to his new role and whether he can deliver the production needed to keep the Cardinals competitive in the challenging landscape of the NFL.

As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Benson as he embraces the challenge of leading the Cardinals’ backfield.

If you would like to dive deeper into Trey Benson’s background, college years, and scouting profile, just let me know!