GLENDALE – When the Arizona Cardinals announced that running back Trey Benson would have his 21-day practice window open on November 19th, fans around the Valley were relieved to get some good news during this nightmare 2025 season. Benson has been sidelined since Week 4, after getting arthroscopic surgery. Since his exit, Arizona’s running game has yielded poor results, but with the 23-year-old’s expected return, the offense looked to be turned around.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!However, his practice window announcement was two weeks ago, and since then, there has been nothing but cryptic message from head coach Jonathan Gannon to answer for the delay.
Arizona Cardinals running back Trey Benson (33) runs out on to the field before they play the Seattle Seahawks at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Sept. 25, 2025. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
All of Gannon’s update on Benson:
The Cardinals have until December 10th to activate Benson to the 53-man roster. If not, the former third-round pick will be placed back on IR and out for the rest of the 2025 season. One must wonder why Arizona opened Benson’s practice window if he still far away from returning to the field. The answer could be that the second-year Cardinals halfback suffered an unknown setback that the team is keeping close to the chest, but that is only speculation.
Aug 9, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back Trey Benson (33) runs against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first half at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
With the team 3-9, the franchise could be trying to play it safe by benching its young running back coming off surgery to protect his health for the future. Arizona is already eliminated from playoff contention and have nothing left to play for this season.
Pro Bowl running back James Conner suffered a significant right foot injury in Week 3, and with his advance age, could have his career in serious jeopardy. That news leaves the Cardinals without a safety net and forcing them to be careful with how they handle Benson’s injury moving forward.
Cardinals HC Gannon preparing to face high-power Rams offense in Week 14
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
