The Arizona Cardinals took some much-needed time for self-reflection during their bye week. Sitting at the bottom of the NFC West with a 2-5 record, the team has endured five consecutive one-score losses, including three straight defeats by game-winning field goals. This stretch prompted some soul-searching within the organization.
Despite the disappointing record, the Cardinals had not made any trades—until recently. Ahead of their Week 9 Monday Night Football matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, the team made a notable roster move by releasing running back Michael Carter, as reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
Carter’s 2025 season has been a roller coaster. Initially part of the team’s roster cuts before Week 1, he rebounded by earning the Pat Tillman Award, given to the Cardinals’ scout team player of the week. Following injuries to key running backs James Conner and Trey Benson, Carter was promoted to Arizona’s starting running back role.
However, Carter’s tenure as a starter was short-lived. Over three games, he struggled to build momentum. He totaled 96 rushing yards on 34 attempts, caught nine passes for 77 yards, and scored one touchdown. His workload also declined with each game. Carter opened with a career-high 18 carries against the Tennessee Titans but saw fewer than 10 carries in each of the next two games.
Statistically, his production was underwhelming. Averaging just 2.8 yards per attempt, which ranks tied for 50th in the NFL, Carter’s lack of effectiveness contributed to the team’s decision to move on.
With Carter’s release, the Cardinals are now down to their fourth-string running back. They are expected to rely on a combination of Zonovan Knight and Emari Demercado moving forward. Meanwhile, the team remains hopeful for the return of Trey Benson, who is recovering from knee surgery. Benson is eligible to come off injured reserve starting in Week 10, following the mandatory four-week recovery period.
As the Cardinals regroup, the backfield will be an area to watch as they seek to find stability and improve their offensive production moving deeper into the season.
https://clutchpoints.com/nfl/arizona-cardinals/cardinals-news-arizona-cuts-ties-running-back-after-bye-week
