Trey Benson: Cardinals RB Poised for a Breakout in 2026

Introduction

The Arizona Cardinals are at a crossroads as the new league year approaches on March 11, and among the key players set to make an impact is running back Trey Benson. With hopes high for a comeback, I'm here to dissect Benson's season, his current status, and what we can expect from him in 2026.

Trey Benson's Performance in 2025

Entering the 2025 season, Benson was expected to step up significantly. A promising prospect, he started the year as the backup to James Conner and was utilized on passing downs. Unfortunately, injuries hindered his contributions. He played just four games, accumulating 160 rushing yards at an impressive average of 5.5 yards per carry. He also made 13 receptions for 64 yards before suffering a knee injury that ultimately saw him sidelined for the rest of the year.

"Injuries are part of the game, but they're never easy. For Benson, it's about bouncing back and showing his resilience."

Contract Insights

Benson is currently on a contract that extends through 2027, with a salary of $1.35 million and a cap hit of $1.65 million. This financial flexibility gives the Cardinals room to maneuver as they seek reinforcements for their roster, but it also places an added level of expectation on Benson to deliver.

Offseason Outlook

The offseason is where the real growth happens, and for Benson to compete effectively in 2026, prioritizing his health is crucial. With a new coaching staff in place, he has an excellent opportunity to showcase his potential. However, he'll need to prove that he can adapt to new schemes while earning his place on an evolving roster.

Challenges Ahead

The reality is that Benson will have to battle not just for a spot on the roster but to cement his position in a potentially crowded backfield. As Columbia reports, the running back market is alive with talent, and every day counts. He's up against both upcoming draft picks and seasoned veterans who will be vying for the same role. The pressure is on, but from my perspective, Benson has the grit to rise to the occasion.

Conclusion

As we look forward to the 2026 season, Trey Benson remains a compelling figure for the Arizona Cardinals. His journey through recovery, adaptation to new strategies, and competitive spirit will define not just his own career but potentially the team's fortunes as well. Keep an eye on how he develops in the coming months—one thing's for sure, this athlete is determined to leave his mark.

If you want to follow more in-depth coverage of Trey Benson and the Cardinals, listen to the latest on the Rise Up, See Red podcast available on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts.