The Arizona Cardinals suffered a tremendous blow in losing running back James Conner after suffering a serious ankle injury in Sunday’s 16-15 loss to the division rival San Francisco 49ers. Surgery is expected in what will amount to a lost season for the 30 year-old back.

James Conner has fought many battles on and off the field, most notably overcoming cancer in 2015. Conner’s absence will open up a 60.8% opportunity share to be taken by backfield mate Trey Benson. While Benson will split duties with satellite back Emari Demercado, expect Benson to get the bulk of opportunity as the RB1 in the Cardinals offense. 

While the Cardinals may trade for a running back or sign one off of the practice squad, expect Benson to fill Conner’s role on a 1:1 basis. Benson is shaping up to be a league winner for those who have him rostered. 

Author: Jeremiah Retzlaff (@coachretzlaff1)