Trey Benson is no longer just a name known by the diehard Florida State faithful. Once the centerpiece of Mike Norvell’s explosive backfield in Tallahassee, Benson is now preparing to carve out a name for himself on Sundays. His new stage is the NFL, and the Arizona Cardinals are where he will begin his professional journey—one that’s already generating buzz across the league and within his own locker room. In a league where rookies often have to wait their turn, Benson seems poised to skip the queue altogether.
The Cardinals used a valuable third-round pick on Benson in the 2025 NFL Draft, a move that many fans saw coming given the team’s focus on improving their offensive depth. But what perhaps wasn’t as expected is just how quickly Benson has begun to demand attention in Arizona. From organized team activities (OTAs) to training camp, the 6’1”, 215-pound tailback has impressed with a rare mix of explosiveness, patience, and downhill power. Arizona’s coaching staff, front office, and most significantly, its lead running back, have all taken notice. In a recent media availability, veteran James Conner didn’t mince words about Benson’s future in the desert: “We’re both RB1,” Conner said. “He’s gonna play a lot this year.”
It’s not every day that a seasoned starter with a Pro Bowl on his résumé openly declares a rookie as a co-equal in the depth chart. Conner’s endorsement is more than just a kind word—it’s an acknowledgment of what the Cardinals are building and what Benson is rapidly becoming. That sort of validation speaks volumes in an NFL culture where competition is fierce and roles are rarely shared voluntarily. For a player like Benson, who emerged from a transfer stint at Oregon to become one of the most dangerous backs in the ACC at Florida State, this moment is a continuation of a career trajectory that has been trending upward for years.
Benson’s college production tells the story of a player who blossomed at the right time. After limited touches at Oregon, he transferred to FSU in 2022 and quickly became one of the top rushers in the conference. Known for his contact balance and long speed, Benson piled up highlight runs that showed both burst and breakaway ability. More importantly, he proved that he could handle a heavy workload, regularly putting in games with 15-20 carries while staying productive. He finished his career with over 2,000 rushing yards and 25 touchdowns, and his pre-draft evaluations were glowing. Scouts loved his north-south running style, his vision between the tackles, and the potential to be a three-down back if given the chance.
Now, that chance is coming quicker than many expected. The Cardinals’ offensive scheme under head coach Jonathan Gannon and offensive coordinator Drew Petzing is built on zone concepts and a strong ground game—exactly the kind of environment where Benson can thrive. While James Conner remains a valuable veteran presence, his recent history of injuries and the natural wear and tear that comes with the position have opened the door for Benson to share, and potentially take over, key responsibilities. Early reports out of camp suggest the team is already installing packages that feature both backs on the field simultaneously, indicating not just depth rotation but a plan to weaponize both runners in tandem.
Conner’s comments were not a passing statement—they came from a place of respect and understanding of what it takes to be an RB1 in today’s NFL. “Trey’s got all the tools,” Conner said. “He’s strong, he’s smart, and he works like he’s been in the league five years already. That’s the kind of dude you want next to you in the huddle.” Coming from a player like Conner, who has battled cancer, made Pro Bowls, and led multiple teams in rushing, that kind of praise isn’t given lightly. It’s a nod to Benson’s work ethic, maturity, and physical readiness for the NFL stage.
What makes Benson’s situation so unique is the environment he’s entering. The Cardinals are in a transitional phase as a franchise, coming off a disappointing season and looking for new leaders on both sides of the ball. Kyler Murray’s return from injury will be central to the team’s identity, but having a reliable ground game to support him will be critical. Benson’s role in that plan seems to be more than situational—it’s shaping up to be foundational.
Analysts across the league are beginning to take notice. Former players-turned-broadcasters have called Benson a “steal” in the draft and a potential Offensive Rookie of the Year candidate if the carries come his way. Even fantasy football insiders are putting Benson on breakout watchlists, citing his explosive upside and the real possibility that he could overtake Conner in touches by midseason, particularly if the Cardinals begin to look toward the future.
But for all the hype and speculation, what stands out most is how grounded Benson remains. Those close to him say he still trains like a walk-on, still studies film with the intensity of a backup fighting for his spot. That humility, combined with the physical tools and now the public blessing of James Conner, is a rare formula for success. FSU fans who followed his rise in garnet and gold shouldn’t be surprised—this is who Benson has always been. Driven. Overlooked. Ready to prove people wrong.
As training camp continues and preseason games draw closer, all eyes in Arizona will be on the running back room. But the narrative isn’t “who will win the starting job”—because Conner already answered that. It’s not a battle. It’s a partnership. And it’s one the Cardinals plan to lean on heavily in 2025.
For Trey Benson, the road from Tallahassee to the NFL spotlight may have been unconventional, but it’s becoming clear that the destination was never in doubt. He’s not just playing for carries anymore. He’s playing to become a cornerstone of Arizona’s offense—and if James Conner is to be believed, he’s already well on his way.
