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, December 19, 11:28 PM

Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery enters his Week 16 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers on a hot streak, as he's recorded a rushing touchdown in three straight contests. However, Montgomery's recent usage paints a more worrying picture for his production. The 28-year-old has recorded double-digit touches just once in his last five games, and he's played fewer than 40% of the Lions' offensive snaps in six out of the last seven contests. Montgomery's limited workload makes him highly dependent on touchdowns for fantasy production, which may be hard to come by against Pittsburgh. Entering Week 16, the Steelers defense has allowed just 10 rushing touchdowns on the season, which ranks tied for fifth-fewest in the NFL. Montgomery profiles as a low-end flex option for fantasy managers in Week 16.