The Arizona Cardinals sit at 2-1 so far in their 2025 season, but continue to face challenges.
Veteran running back James Conner went down with a severe ankle injury this past Sunday in a nail-biter loss to the San Francisco 49ers.
His absence clearly leaves a huge hole in the Cardinals’ offensive production.
However, quarterback Kyler Murray wasted no time addressing the situation.
NFL.com Senior News Writer Kevin Patra wrote in his most recent column that Murray has the “ultimate confidence” in Trey Benson to carry the load.
This isn’t just lip service.
Murray is confident that Benson will provide for the offense.
And with a divisional matchup set for Thursday with the Seattle Seahawks, Benson, Murray, and the offense need to be ready.
Cardinals Confident In Trey Benson
GettyGLENDALE, ARIZONA – AUGUST 09: Running back Trey Benson #33 of the Arizona Cardinals rushes the football against the Kansas City Chiefs during the NFL Preseason 2025 game at State Farm Stadium on August 09, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Kyler Murray’s comments hold weight.
It’s clear Murray understands that losing a player like Conner hurts, but his belief in Benson will spread confidence across that position group.
“Ultimate confidence in Trey and each and every guy behind him that has to play,” Murray said, “I know we struggled last weekend as a unit, but my confidence never wavers in those guys, and I know they’ll make the play next time.”
Kyler Murray is not only offering his encouragement to Benson but to the offense as a unit.
Additionally, Benson brings fresh energy.
Opposing defenses don’t have much to go off with him as a player, which can be used as an advantage for Arizona.
It will be vital that the Cardinals keep giving Benson opportunities so the offense can open up.
When the offense is humming off the run game, Murray will be able to get into play-action looks, which is where he thrives in his playmaking ability.
Conner’s Impact Can’t Be Overlooked
GettyNEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SEPTEMBER 07: James Conner #6 of the Arizona Cardinals reacts while playing against the New Orleans Saints during the game at Caesars Superdome on September 07, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
With Benson now in the spotlight, it’s important to recognize James Conner’s role.
Conner was the only Cardinals player with multiple scrimmage touchdowns this season.
Moreover, since Conner joined the Cardinals in 2021, he ranks seventh in scrimmage touchdowns with 46.
That is good company to be in.
Conner’s physical running style and leadership set the tone for Arizona every Sunday.
Losing him does sting, especially with an important divisional matchup on the horizon.
However, football doesn’t wait.
The Cardinals know they can’t dwell on the loss, and they must rally behind Benson and continue forward as an offensive group.
Murray’s faith in Benson signals that Arizona will move ahead as planned, and if Benson can rise to the challenge, the Cardinals’ offense will have continued success.
Arizona heads into a critical week.
Conner’s injury changes the outlook, but Murray’s faith and leadership keep the unit grounded.
Benson has all the tools to prove himself as the starter moving forward, and having confidence from his quarterback will help fuel him as he steps into a new role.
The challenge may be steep, but if Benson proves worthy and Murray stays sharp, the Cardinals can keep pace in the NFC West.
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