We all know what the Arizona Cardinals' backfield is right? James Conner will get a massive workload and put up big numbers. Kyler Murray will produce some explosive plays on scrambles or designed runs. And that'll be about it.
But it might be different in 2025. The Cardinals have a hidden gem on the roster who could see a breakout year if things play out in a certain way.
Trey Benson could be set for a breakout season in 2025
Let's face the facts: Arizona Cardinals star running back James Conner is 30 years old. Outside of generational superstars like Derrick Henry, running backs don't typically age well. James Conner has been productive for the Cardinals so far, but the cliff will come eventually. While many analysts might think that a decline in production for James Conner means a decline in production for the Cardinals' rushing attack, Arizona has a contingency plan.
The Cardinals drafted running back Trey Benson in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Benson, the former Florida State Seminole, had a quiet rookie season. He only had 63 total rushing attempts, which he turned into 291 yards.
But Benson showed flashes of the explosiveness the Cardinals need to open up their offense. He took more than 15% of his carries for at least ten yards. Over 25% of his runs went for first downs. While it's a small sample size, there are encouraging signs that Benson could be the successor to Arizona's starting running back role that the team hoped for when he was drafted.
As long as James Conner is on the Cardinals' roster, he will be the starting running back. There's no question there. But even if Conner continues to hold the starting role in 2025, Trey Benson could see more of the field than he did as a rookie.
Benson himself expects to have a bigger role this season. At team minicamp, he told reporters that he thinks the team could have "two RB1s" on the roster.
There's room for another productive running back in the Arizona Cardinals' offense. This was one of the more run-heavy teams in the NFL last season. The Cardinals finished 11th in the NFL in total rushing attempts in 2024. Of the top 11, only the Baltimore Ravens averaged more yards per carry than the Cardinals.
Even if Trey Benson sees just a marginal increase in his opportunities this season, he could establish himself as one of the best backup running backs in the NFL.