The Arizona Cardinals have less than two weeks and just two preseason games left to sort out their final running back spot, and trust me, it’s not looking easy. Three guys are already locked in: rookie Jeremiyah Love, free agent Tyler Allgeier, and veteran James Conner. That leaves one coveted fourth spot, and the competition has gotten unexpectedly complicated.
The “Most Talented” Back Is On the Outs
The battle for that last RB slot is between Trey Benson, Bam Knight, and Corey Kiner. The head-scratcher here is Trey Benson. He’s arguably the most talented of the bunch. So, what’s the problem? He just doesn’t fit the number four running back role. That job is all about special teams play, and Benson? He’s got exactly zero NFL special teams experience. Add to that a balky knee, the same one that needed surgery last season and then had a setback after he came back to practice. This isn’t just bad luck; it makes him look destined for injured reserve or getting cut entirely. With that knee history, it’s tough to see him having any trade value either. Talk about a brutal turn for a talented guy.
Knight vs. Kiner: Who’s Making the Plays?
With Benson looking like the odd man out, the real fight comes down to Bam Knight and Corey Kiner. Knight felt like the favorite. He showed his worth last season, making plays, returning kicks, and putting in work on special teams. He even played well in the Hall of Fame game! But then came the Raiders game last Thursday, a 27-14 win for the Cardinals. Knight had three carries for 15 yards. Kiner, though? He absolutely outplayed him. Kiner, who barely played last season, scored a touchdown in the Hall of Fame game and then led the team against the Raiders with 59 rushing yards on 10 attempts. Special teams snaps are a big deal for this role, too. Knight had four special teams snaps on Thursday, Kiner had two. Last season, Knight returned 12 kicks and played 32 special teams snaps, while Kiner returned only one kick and played six special teams snaps in four games. These final two preseason games are going to be everything for both of them.
What’s Next for the Cardinals’ Backfield?
It’s an intense almost two weeks ahead for the Cardinals. Benson’s situation feels like a sad certainty, leaving Knight and Kiner to duke it out for that last roster spot. Who will step up and prove they’re the right fit for both the run game and special teams? Every snap in these final two preseason matchups will matter.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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