Who Should I Start? James Conner or Cam Skattebo

Monday, September 22, 6:34 PM

Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (ankle) underwent season-ending surgery on Monday after suffering a significant right ankle injury in the third quarter of Sunday's game. Conner was carted off with his ankle immobilized, and head coach Jonathan Gannon confirmed he won't return this season. With Conner sidelined, the Cardinals will turn to second-year back Trey Benson, who has been highly efficient, averaging 6.0 yards per carry (second among RBs). Gannon praised Benson before the season, noting he viewed both Conner and Benson as capable starters. Benson now projects as the lead option in Arizona's backfield, while Emari Demercado is expected to mix in behind him.

Monday, January 5, 12:48 PM

New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo (ankle) said he is hoping to be back healthy by training camp as the long-term goal, according to Evan Barnes of Newsday. There is no rush for Skattebo to be back for organized team activities in the spring. "I'm juiced to see what this franchise can be within the next five years," Skattebo said. The 23-year-old from Arizona State took over the Giants' backfield by midseason, but his rookie campaign came to an end when he dislocated his right ankle in Week 8. The bruising back ran for 410 yards and five touchdowns on 101 carries while also catching 24 passes for 207 yards and two touchdowns as a receiver in eight games. Long term, Skattebo figures to be New York's lead back, but his fantasy value in 2026 will depend on how his recovery goes and whether he'll be ready for the start of the regular season in the fall.