Emari Demercado is set for a much bigger role with the Arizona Cardinals starting Sunday, October 6, 2025, against the Tennessee Titans. The team announced that rookie running back Trey Benson will be placed on injured reserve with a knee injury, which means he will miss at least four games. With James Conner already out for the season due to a foot injury, the Cardinals will now lean heavily on Emari Demercado and Michael Carter to carry the load.
Emari Demercado moves up after Trey Benson injury
Emari Demercado, 25, looked sharp in last week’s 23-20 loss to the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday night. In that game, he rushed twice for eight yards and caught both of his targets for 13 yards, including a touchdown reception. His quick play and ability to adjust to short passes gave the Cardinals confidence to use him more often. Trey Benson’s knee injury, suffered during the Week 4 game, changes the rotation. With Benson sidelined, Demercado and Michael Carter will share most of the snaps in the backfield. Carter, who weighs 201 pounds, has speed and receiving ability, but Demercado, at 215 pounds, is expected to handle more inside carries. Bam Knight, signed earlier this season, will move into the No. 3 running back role.Also Read: Cowboys Vs. Packers On Sunday Night Football: Micah Parsons’ Dallas Return Fuels High-Stakes Week 4 Clash
Emari Demercado and Michael Carter prepare for bigger challenge
Head coach Jonathan Gannon spoke to reporters after practice on Friday in Tempe, Arizona. “We trust Emari and Michael to step in and compete,” Gannon said. He praised Demercado’s energy and pointed out how quickly he has adjusted to the Cardinals’ system.Michael Carter, 25, joined the Cardinals last year after spending time with the New York Jets. He will be used more in passing plays, while Demercado could see an increase in short-yardage and red-zone work. This mix makes both players important for fantasy football managers, especially in point-per-reception formats.With James Conner on season-ending injured reserve since September, and now Trey Benson out, the Cardinals may look to add another running back in the coming weeks. For now, the spotlight turns to Emari Demercado, who will get his first real chance to lead the Cardinals’ backfield this Sunday in Nashville against the Titans.
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