Who Should I Start? James Conner or Quinshon Judkins

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, November 3, 1:02 PM

Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said he "feels good" about rookie running back Quinshon Judkins' (shoulder) availability for the Week 10 contest this Sunday against the New York Jets, according to Scott Petrak of Browns Zone. Judkins was forced to leave the Week 8 loss to the New England Patriots early due to an AC joint sprain, but with the benefit of a bye in Week 9, he may not have to miss a game. Stefanski called Judkins "day-to-day" on Monday, so fantasy managers have to feel good about the rookie's chances to suit up this weekend in a favorable matchup. The 22-year-old second-rounder out of Ohio State didn't take long to take over lead-back duties in Cleveland this year, and he should be the team's RB1 this weekend if he's cleared. Judkins has been a must-start in fantasy lineups in 2025, posting 486 rushing yards and five touchdowns on his 118 carries through seven starts. He's also added 12 catches for 60 yards on 15 targets.