Arizona Cardinals provide crucial Trey Benson injury update amid mixed Week 5 reports
Arizona Cardinals Update: Key Players Return and Strategic Moves Unfold
Cardinals Gain Extra Practice Time and Injury Updates
Following their recent “Thursday Night Football” appearance, the Arizona Cardinals enjoyed an additional practice day on Monday, September 29, marking the start of Week 5 preparations. This extra time brought mixed news on the injury front. Cornerback Will Johnson rejoined practice after a two-week absence due to a groin injury. “He’s taking it day by day, doing a good job,” said Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon. “Hopefully, we’ll get him back out there.”
Conversely, running back Trey Benson was notably absent from practice. His status remains something to monitor as the first injury report is due on Wednesday. Benson’s absence was noticeable during the final drive of Week 4, which relied on pass-catching back Emari Demercado. Coach Gannon, however, did not report any immediate concerns post-game, indicating, “Just taking it day by day,” regarding Benson’s condition.
Defensive Line Boost with Bilal Nichols
With the conclusion of the first four games of the season, the Cardinals also took the opportunity to open the practice window for players starting on the injured reserve or physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Defensive tackle Bilal Nichols, who suffered a neck injury last October, is now within a 21-day practice period before needing activation to the active roster. His return is expected to fortify a defensive line plagued by depth issues. Gannon praised Nichols, stating, “He’s a good football player. Can play a couple different hats for us. So it’s good to have him back out there today.”
Despite this move, the Cardinals did not extend practice opportunities to other eligible players, including:
- Walter Nolen (calf)
- B.J. Ojulari (knee)
- Justin Jones (knee)
- Hayden Conner (knee)
- Christian Jones (knee)
As the Cardinals’ first-round pick, Nolen is a significant absence due to a calf injury suffered before training camp. Coach Gannon, however, remained unconcerned, replying simply, “No,” when asked about Nolen’s status.
Roster Moves: Signing Michael Carter
The Cardinals recently addressed their roster by signing running back Michael Carter from the practice squad to their 53-man roster. Carter’s spot on the practice squad was filled by D’Ernest Johnson, a seasoned player with experience from the Cleveland Browns and Jacksonville Jaguars, boasting an average of 4.6 yards per carry.
Carter, part of the Cardinals since 2023, has primarily been a practice squad asset. However, he’s made an impact, averaging 4.8 yards per carry in limited opportunities. Last season, Carter had a vital role in the Cardinals’ final two games, recording 30 carries for 113 yards and a touchdown. On hearing of his promotion to the active roster, Carter received a standing ovation from his teammates. “Mike’s an integral part of this team,” said Gannon. “When you’ve got guys that perform, star their role, and have a good attitude, they’re team-first guys. You can’t have enough of those guys.”
Analyzing Gannon’s Strategy on Points Conversion
In Week 4, after scoring a touchdown to cut the deficit to 20-12, the Cardinals opted for an extra point instead of a 2-point conversion. Although the Seahawks’ eventual field goal rendered the decision moot, it went against current analytical trends.
Teams that go for a 2-point conversion in such scenarios often have a 50% chance of winning, should they score another touchdown. Conversely, settling for an extra point ensures a tie and potential overtime. Gannon explained his choice, stating, “We talk about it. That’s a good point. It was a discussion. I’ve went back and forth. A little bit of game flow to that one. I liked putting another point on the board and putting it where it was at that point in the game.”
