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Trade rumors surrounding Arizona Cardinals running back Trey Benson have gained momentum after he was absent from a recent practice session. The third-year back was not seen on the field or even on the sidelines, and head coach Mike LaFleur did not address his status before the team's next workout.
Speculation about a potential trade had already been circulating as Benson entered his third NFL season, but his absence, followed by the Cardinals claiming running back Evan Hull and working out Jermar Jefferson, only amplified the chatter. LaFleur clarified that Benson's absence was injury-related, citing a minor flare-up in his left knee. "Just a little discomfort, little flare up in the left knee. It's unfortunate because he was feeling so good, and I thought he was really getting his legs underneath him. I thought he strung together some good days. It was good news today that he was feeling much better," LaFleur told reporters on Monday.
Benson has been viewed as a trade candidate since the arrivals of Tyler Allgeier in free agency and Jeremiyah Love in the draft, joining James Conner, who restructured his contract to remain with the team for 2026. A former Day 2 draft pick, Benson's tenure in Arizona has been plagued by injuries and inconsistent playing time. While he has flashed big-play ability reminiscent of his Florida State days, he has yet to fully deliver in the Cardinals' backfield.
Depth Chart Slide
The Cardinals appear committed to a heavy running game, but with Allgeier, Love, and Conner ahead of him, Benson finds himself on the outside looking in. He was listed as RB4 on the team's first depth chart, and Bam Knight has been receiving more reps with the starters as Arizona prepares for its preseason opener. Knight's special teams contributions could give him the edge if a roster decision comes down to the two.
Benson has seen limited action in 11-on-11 drills, often working with the third team. The Cardinals would ideally trade him for a late-round pick rather than release him outright. Several running back-needy teams might be willing to take a flier on Benson, who could benefit from a change of scenery. In 17 games over two seasons, Benson has rushed 92 times for 4.9 yards per carry and one touchdown, but he has ended both seasons on injured reserve due to ankle and knee injuries.