NFL running back rejoins team just days after being cut

The Arizona Cardinals have quickly brought former third-round NFL Draft pick Trey Benson back into the fold after releasing him earlier this week.

The former third-round pick cleared waivers Tuesday and, because he was waived with an injury designation, he has reverted to Arizona’s injured reserve list.

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Aug 9, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back Trey Benson (33) against the Kansas City Chiefs during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Arizona waived Benson on Monday after the running back continued dealing with a lingering knee issue. The Cardinals’ official announcement described the move as a waiver/injury designation, meaning Benson would return to the team’s injured reserve if no other club claimed him.

The timing is notable because Benson had been competing for a roster spot after missing significant time last season with a knee injury. He appeared in just four games in 2025 after suffering the injury that ultimately ended his season.

Benson also faced a much more crowded running back room this year. Arizona retained James Conner, signed Tyler Allgeier and used the No. 3 overall pick in the 2026 draft on Jeremiyah Love, making Benson’s path to meaningful playing time considerably more difficult.

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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.

The Cardinals selected Benson with the No. 66 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, hoping he would eventually become a significant part of their backfield.

That hasn’t happened yet because of the injuries, but he has shown flashes when healthy. Through his first two seasons, Benson has rushed for 451 yards and one touchdown on 92 carries, averaging 4.9 yards per attempt.

Now, rather than joining another team, Benson will remain with Arizona while he continues recovering.

The move doesn’t necessarily mean Benson will have a role with the Cardinals once he’s healthy. The team has invested heavily in its running back room, and Benson will have to fight for his opportunity once he’s ready to return.

For now, though, the 24-year-old has avoided having his NFL career uprooted.

Benson is staying in Arizona, but his next challenge is getting healthy enough to prove he still belongs in the Cardinals’ plans.