Trey Benson’s future with the Arizona Cardinals and his 2026 value is under scrutiny as he attempts to establish himself after stepping into the starting role due to James Conner’s injury. Although Benson quickly faced his own knee setback and missed significant playing time, evaluating his performance and contract offers insight into whether he could become a key contributor again in the Cardinals’ run game.
Despite limited opportunities in 2025, Benson demonstrated strong rushing efficiency with 5.52 yards per carry, leading Arizona running backs by a wide margin. He forced 10 missed tackles on 29 carries, ranking 11th among NFL qualified running backs before his injury, and averaged 3.59 yards after contact per rush. His receiving skills were notable as well, boasting a 93% catch rate on 14 targets, indicating versatility as a dual-threat back.
Comparing his numbers to those of other Cardinals running back replacements—including Emari Demercado, Michael Carter, and Bam Knight—Benson outperformed each, averaging nearly two yards more per carry. These statistics highlight his efficiency and potential value in Arizona’s offense.
Understanding the James Conner Contract and Its Impact on the Backfield
Arizona faces a significant roster decision regarding James Conner, who is entering the 2026 season at age 31 while recovering from major ankle surgery. The Cardinals extended Conner’s contract for two years in 2025, with the final year encompassing the 2026 season. This extension financially obligates the team unless they opt to release him, a move complicated by a substantial dead cap hit.
Conner’s production in 2025 was limited to 133 scrimmage yards and two touchdowns over three games before injury sidelined him. Benson, meanwhile, outperformed Conner on a per-carry basis when both were active, suggesting a slight competitive edge. However, Conner’s contract carries an average annual value of $9.5 million and a dead cap figure of $2.2 million, while Benson’s contract runs through 2027 with an average yearly salary of $1.5 million and a dead cap around $600,000.
Given these financial factors, it is unlikely the Cardinals cut Conner before his contract expires, although lingering effects from his surgery could impact his performance. This scenario opens the possibility of a gradual transition toward Benson, especially if Conner’s capabilities diminish post-recovery.
Examining Trey Benson’s Injury History and Recovery Outlook
Trey Benson’s NFL career is marked by significant injuries, including a multi-ligament knee tear suffered at Oregon that caused him to miss an entire college season before transferring to Florida State. Further compounding concerns, he sustained a knee injury in 2025, which placed him on injured reserve after four NFL games. Across two professional seasons, Benson has played in 17 games but missed over 30 due to these setbacks.
Nevertheless, Benson’s college performance following his initial injury was impressive; he played 26 consecutive games at FSU and averaged 6.3 yards per carry, demonstrating resilience and dominance when healthy. The Cardinals describe the 2025 knee injury as affecting a different joint with less structural complexity. They originally anticipated a return to practice before the end of the season, although the team ultimately decided to shut him down for recovery.
Benson’s relatively low cap hit and efficient production across his college and NFL career encourage the Cardinals to retain him, despite his injury risks. His consistent rushing effectiveness underscores his potential to contribute significantly if he maintains health.
Implications for Fantasy Football in the 2026 Season
For fantasy football managers, Trey Benson represents a high-upside option in deeper redraft leagues and a viable keeper target for dynasty formats that tolerate injury risk. Conservative dynasty owners may hesitate, as Benson’s current trade value is near its lowest point and could diminish further if Conner returns as the undisputed lead running back. Nonetheless, his statistics during 2025—highlighting a 5.52 yards per carry average, 10 forced missed tackles, and strong pass-catching ability—suggest a notable ceiling, particularly in an offense featuring a wide-zone running scheme and a dual-threat quarterback.
If Benson remains healthy and secures a role as the primary back, his 2026 fantasy outlook could improve dramatically, making him a hidden gem for owners willing to invest in his potential.
