Who Should I Start? James Conner or J.K. Dobbins

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, November 7, 2:57 PM

Denver Broncos running back J.K. Dobbins (foot) briefly left Thursday night's win over the Raiders after having his foot pinned awkwardly beneath a defender's body during a third-quarter rush attempt. While he was able to return to the game, Dobbins and the team are now awaiting a second opinion to determine the severity of the foot injury. Dobbins has been a workhorse for the Broncos all season long, and in a game bereft of offensive highlights, he still managed a respectable 77 yards on 18 carries. Dobbins will now benefit from the post-TNF mini-bye before a Week 11 matchup with the Chiefs, and then the team's actual Week 12 Bye. If Dobbins is forced to miss time, RJ Harvey becomes the obvious next-man-up. However, having topped seven carries only once this season, there should also be an expectation for Tyler Badie and/or Jaleel McLaughlin to see an expanded role.