Full Breakdown
Arizona Cardinals' Running Back Trey Benson's Season Ends Due to Injury
12/10/2025, 11:42:01 PM
Season Conclusion for Trey Benson
The Arizona Cardinals have officially ruled out running back Trey Benson for the remainder of the 2025 NFL season due to a knee injury. Head coach Jonathan Gannon confirmed that the team will not activate Benson from injured reserve, marking a disappointing end to what was anticipated to be a breakout year for the second-year player. Benson's season concludes with 29 carries for 160 yards and 13 receptions for 64 yards across four games, including one start. His last appearance was in Week 4 against the Seattle Seahawks, shortly after the Cardinals lost starting running back James Conner to a season-ending ankle injury.
Impact on the Cardinals' Roster
With Benson sidelined, the Cardinals' running back duties will fall primarily to Bam Knight and Michael Carter. Knight has been inconsistent, accumulating just 34 total yards in recent games. The absence of Benson, who was expected to add power and versatility to the backfield, necessitates adjustments in the Cardinals' offensive strategy, particularly in their reliance on the run game. The team may also explore free-agent options or consider drafting a running back to bolster their roster for the 2026 season.
Official Statements & Responses
Gannon expressed disappointment regarding Benson's injury, stating, “It’s part of the game. I know he’s disappointed, we’re disappointed.” This sentiment reflects the broader implications of Benson's absence, as the Cardinals must now navigate the remainder of the season without a key player who was seen as integral to their offensive plans.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have pointed out that the Cardinals' injury woes, particularly in the running back position, highlight deeper issues within the team's roster management and injury prevention strategies. The loss of both Benson and Conner raises questions about the team's depth and preparedness for the season, especially as they face a challenging schedule ahead.
What's Next for the Cardinals?
As the Cardinals prepare for their upcoming games against the Houston Texans and the Los Angeles Rams, they will need to adapt their offensive game plan to compensate for the loss of Benson. The team currently holds the No. 8 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, which may influence their decisions regarding future roster moves, including potential upgrades to the offensive line and running back positions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Cardinals are not activating RB Trey Benson; his season is over.” — Adam Schefter, ESPN
- “I know he’s disappointed, we’re disappointed.” — Jonathan Gannon, Head Coach
The Cardinals' focus will now shift to recovery and rebuilding for the 2026 season, with hopes that Benson can return to form after rehabilitation.
