Injury-Depleted Cardinals Expand Roles for Running Backs Carter and Demercado

The Arizona Cardinals are facing a significant challenge in their running back corps due to injuries to key players James Conner and Trey Benson, both sidelined for the season and short-term respectively. This has thrust Michael Carter, Emari Demercado, and Bam Knight into more prominent roles, with Carter expected to handle early-down duties and Demercado focusing on third-down and pass protection responsibilities. Despite a currently struggling rushing attack ranked 22nd in the league, the coaching staff, including head coach Jonathan Gannon and offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, express confidence in the depth and versatility of the remaining backs, emphasizing incremental adjustments rather than major offensive changes. Quarterback Kyler Murray has voiced strong faith in the next-man-up mentality within the running back room. The Cardinals aim to maintain offensive efficiency by leveraging each player's unique skill set, with Demercado noted for consistency and Carter for his well-rounded abilities. This committee approach will likely persist until Benson's expected return around Week 10, as the team works to revitalize its ground game.