Who Should I Start? James Conner or Javonte Williams

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.

Monday, October 6, 6:57 PM

If it wasn't already clear that Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams is the team's lead back after his big game in the Week 5 win over the New York Jets on Sunday, head coach Brian Schottenheimer reiterated it on Monday when he said, "Javonte's the bell-cow. He's earned that." Williams dominated the Jets in the 37-22 victory, carrying the rock 16 times for 135 yards and a touchdown while adding a touchdown reception. It was the 25-year-old's first 100-yard rushing performance since his rookie season in 2021 with the Denver Broncos. It helped that backup Miles Sanders (ankle, knee) was inactive on Sunday, but even so, Williams is Dallas' clear lead back going forward. He appears to be fully healthy and is making the Cowboys' one-year deal look pretty darn good right now. Williams has cemented himself into must-start status in fantasy with 525 scrimmage yards and six touchdowns through five games, and he could have a second straight big performance in Week 6 in a matchup against the Carolina Panthers.