Who Should I Start? James Conner or James Cook

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 8, 11:51 AM

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook has been removed from the injury report and will play Sunday against the Miami Dolphins, presumably without any limitations. This is great news for Cook and his fantasy managers, as a matchup against the Dolphins provides an enormous opportunity for the 26-year-old to rack up fantasy points. Miami has been miserable against the run this year, surrendering the third-most rushing yards and fifth-most fantasy points to opposing running backs in 2025. Cook is the overall RB7 in PPR leagues so far with 867 rushing yards, 100 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns. In his last outing against Miami, he accrued 118 scrimmage yards and one touchdown. Fantasy managers should have full confidence deploying Cook as a mid-to-high RB1 this week.