Running back James Conner has had his healthiest season in years. This is only the second season he has reached at least 15 games in his 8 years in the league. Conner is a bruising power back, so it is testament to his toughness as a player who is reaching the later years of his career. Conner has been a reliable starter for the Cardinals since joining the team in 2021. He has averaged no less than 15 points a game since. With this latest knee injury it is wise to shut him down since the Cardinals were eliminated from playoff contention. Journeyman running back Michael Carter was elevated from practice squad to replace Conner. Carter will likely get most of the carries as rookie running back Trey Benson was just recently put on IR as well.

With the season coming to close, the Cardinals are looking to get their top two RBs healthy for next season. This season was a disappointment on offense as quarterback Kyler Murray was expected to take the offense to another level. Conner will still start as long as he’s healthy, Should Conner slow down any, Benson will take the reigns from there. This offense should progress with the young weapons going ahead.

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