Cardinals' Backfield Sets Sights on 2025 Success

The Arizona Cardinals are preparing for an explosive 2025 NFL season, with veteran running back James Conner positioned for a career-defining campaign. Third-year running back Trey Benson, the team’s 2024 third-round pick, has become a vocal advocate for Conner’s resurgence and the offensive potential under coordinator Drew Petzing.

James Conner: Resilience and Redemption

At 29, Conner has overcome significant challenges, including Hodgkin’s lymphoma during his college years at Pittsburgh and multiple NFL injuries. His 2024 season was his most efficient yet, rushing for 1,094 yards and 8 touchdowns with a 4.6 yards-per-carry average. Pro Football Focus data highlights his effectiveness, ranking him second among running backs in avoided tackles per game (4.5) and yards after contact per attempt (3.6) over the past two seasons. This aligns with Arizona’s offensive strategy of prioritizing consistency over explosive plays.

Trey Benson’s Rising Role and Team Dynamics

Benson, a Florida State product, brings versatility to the backfield despite limited rookie action (69 touches, 4.6 yards per carry). His 12/118 receiving line in 2024 signals untapped potential. Head coach Jonathan Gannon’s “five buckets” philosophy emphasizes rotational depth, and Benson’s speed and pass-catching skills make him an ideal complement to Conner. While Conner remains the starter, the competition between the two is framed as mutually beneficial:

“James is a leader I’m learning from, but I’m here to push him too,” Benson said at training camp. “Our best versions will help this team win.”

Offensive Line Stability and Tactical Adjustments

Arizona’s offensive line, ranked 14th in run-blocking in 2024, returns intact. Left tackle Paris Johnson Jr. and center Hjalti Fannaragnarsson anchor a unit that minimizes negative plays—a style suited to Conner’s physical running. Petzing’s scheme now reduces Conner’s third-down workload to preserve his energy, with Benson and Emari Demercine handling passing situations. With quarterback Kyler Murray healthy and receivers like Marvin Harrison Jr. stretching defenses, the offense aims for balanced success.

Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for Conner and the Cardinals

Conner’s 2025 Season is critical: it’s his final year under contract (with a $10.25M cap hit in 2026), and a strong showing could cement his legacy in Arizona. Meanwhile, Benson’s development will shape the team’s future. As Gannon noted, “We want competition everywhere—the running back room is no exception.” With a bolstered defense and NFC West title aspirations, the Cardinals’ success hinges on Conner’s durability and his ability to outperform emerging threats like Benson.

Keywords

Arizona Cardinals | James Conner | Trey Benson | NFL 2025 | Running Back Competition