Who Should I Start? James Conner or Omarion Hampton

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.

Sunday, November 9, 8:42 PM

Los Angeles Chargers running back Omarion Hampton (ankle) was not wearing a walking boot as he watched his teammates warm up ahead of Sunday's Week 10 contest against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The absence of a boot is a promising sign as Hampton inches closer to his return from injured reserve. The rookie has been sidelined since Week 5, leaving Kimani Vidal as the team's lead running back. Once Hampton is healthy enough to return, he should reclaim the every-down role that he occupied prior to his injury. Before he's activated, though, he'd need to be designated to return and log a few promising practice sessions. As soon as he gets back onto the field, he'll rank as a solid RB1 for fantasy football.