Can the Cardinals survive without James Conner after his season-ending injury? What to know

The Arizona Cardinals received a devastating blow on Sunday when running back James Conner was carted off with a season-ending ankle injury against the San Francisco 49ers. As the emotional leader of the locker room and centerpiece of the Cardinals’ ground attack, Conner’s absence raises a pivotal question: How will Arizona’s offense survive without him?

James Conner went down in the third quarter and was ruled out shortly after. According to reports, tests confirmed the ankle injury would end his 2025 season. It marks another difficult setback for the veteran, who has been both a workhorse and a mentor to the Cardinals’ younger players.

Who Steps Up in Conner’s Absence?

With Conner sidelined, the Cardinals will turn to Trey Benson as their primary ball carrier. Benson has already flashed potential, recording 125 rushing yards on 21 carries this season, along with 45 receiving yards. After Conner’s injury, he finished with 42 yards on 10 carries, including an explosive 29-yard run.

Benson admitted he has no choice but to take over:

“I’m going to do it for [Conner]. He’s going to be my motivation for the rest of the year and I can’t wait.”

Behind Benson, Emari Demercado will see more touches, particularly on third downs, while Bam Knight adds depth. Michael Carter, currently on the practice squad, could be elevated to give the team a fourth option.

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What Are Coaches and Players Saying About the Run Game?

Head coach Jonathan Gannon acknowledged the offense has struggled to establish consistent production on the ground. The Cardinals currently average 114 rushing yards per game, ranking 13th in the NFL, but remain inefficient in key moments.

“The runs that are going for nothing, we have to be more efficient,” Gannon said. “Too often we’re facing second-and-10 after a run, and that puts us behind the sticks.”

Quarterback Kyler Murray also emphasized the need to press forward:

“We got to continue to go. We got to continue to get better and we got to be able to run the ball.”

Can the Cardinals’ Young Backs Fill Conner’s Shoes?

While replacing Conner’s leadership and physical style won’t be easy, Benson, Demercado, and Knight believe their committee approach will keep the offense balanced. Demercado stressed that the team won’t change its identity:

“I think we’re good at what we do. So, we just got to stick with that no matter who’s on the ball.”

If the run game can stabilize, it will take pressure off Murray and open up opportunities for Arizona’s receiving corps. The challenge will be finding consistency in Conner’s absence.

FAQ

Q1. What injury did James Conner suffer?

James Conner suffered a season-ending ankle injury in Week 3 against the San Francisco 49ers.

Q2. How long will James Conner be out?

Conner is expected to miss the rest of the 2025 NFL season, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Q3. Who will replace James Conner as the Cardinals’ starting running back?

Trey Benson will take over as the lead back, supported by Emari Demercado and Bam Knight. Michael Carter could also be promoted from the practice squad.

Q4. What did Trey Benson say about stepping up?

Benson said he will play motivated for Conner, calling him a mentor: “I’m going to do it for him.”

Q5. How has Trey Benson performed this season?

Through three games, Benson has 125 rushing yards on 21 carries and 45 receiving yards, showing big-play ability.

Q6. What role will Emari Demercado have?

Demercado will likely continue as a third-down back but expects increased snaps and opportunities in Conner’s absence.

Q7. Will the Cardinals’ run game change without Conner?

Players and coaches insist the scheme won’t change, but efficiency will be key. Arizona is averaging 114 rushing yards per game, ranking 13th in the NFL.

Q8. What did Jonathan Gannon say about the run game?

Gannon admitted the Cardinals must avoid negative plays on early downs: “Too often it was second-and-10 after a run. We just have to be better.”

Q9. How does Kyler Murray view the loss of James Conner?

Murray emphasized the need to stay focused: “We got to continue to go, get better, and be able to run the ball.”

Q10. How will Conner’s absence affect fantasy football?

Fantasy managers should target Trey Benson as the top pickup, while Demercado offers deeper league value. Conner should be dropped or placed on IR in most formats.