Who Should I Start? James Conner or Chase Brown

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.

Saturday, November 15, 12:25 PM

Cincinnati Bengals running back Chase Brown hasn't played as well as expected. He began the 2025 campaign by finding the end zone in Week 1 against the Browns. Unfortunately, the 25-year-old didn't score again until the narrow one-point loss to the New York Jets back in Week 8. It's safe to say he has a way to go before earning back the trust of fantasy managers, especially since he's struggled to get much going on the ground. However, Brown has at least made up for it by scoring two touchdowns against the Jets and totaling eight catches in the Week 9 meeting with the Chicago Bears. He's trending in the right direction and should see even more snaps with Samaje Perine (ankle) ruled out. As a result, Brown can continue to be viewed as a starting fantasy option in Week 11 versus the Pittsburgh Steelers.