Who Should I Start? James Conner or David Montgomery

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.

Friday, September 26, 10:41 PM

Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery was one of the stars of his team's Week 3 win over the Baltimore Ravens, rushing for 151 yards and two touchdowns on 12 carries. The 28-year-old has now recorded 233 yards and three touchdowns on 34 carries through his first three games of 2025. Montgomery gets a brutal matchup in Week 4 against the Cleveland Browns, who have allowed the fewest rushing yards (172) in the NFL so far and just one rushing touchdown. Even with the big game in Week 3, Montgomery is averaging just 13.3 touches per contest and remains highly dependent on touchdowns for fantasy production. The Lions have a potent offense, but this may be a difficult week for them against the Browns. In Week 4, Montgomery profiles as a low-end fantasy RB3/flex option.