The move came in the same set of transactions that saw Arizona activate star pass rusher Josh Sweat off the physically unable to perform list.
The Cardinals also signed safeties Devyn Bobby and Hudson Clark, released tight end Baylor Cupp and receiver Bryson Green, and placed receiver Xavier Weaver on injured reserve.
Knee That Never Fully Cooperated
Benson had been in and out of practice throughout camp with lingering issues in his surgically repaired left knee, an ailment head coach Mike LaFleur addressed just minutes before the move became official.
"We're just taking it one day at a time with Trey right now," LaFleur told reporters. "Truly, that's all I got for you with that one." As it turned out, the decision had already been made.
Cardinals also Waived/Injured running back Trey Benson.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 24, 2026
Benson had strung together some encouraging days before a flare-up in early August set him back again, a frustrating pattern that defined much of his two seasons with the club.
Crowded Room That Left No Room For Patience
Benson entered camp as the fourth option behind Jeremiyah Love, Tyler Allgeier, and James Conner, who restructured his contract this offseason to remain with the team.
Trade speculation had already surrounded Benson for weeks, growing louder after the Cardinals worked out free agent running back Jermar Jefferson and claimed Evan Hull off waivers earlier this month.
The #Cardinals have waived RB Trey Benson, who was their 3rd-round pick in 2024. pic.twitter.com/TcEJMmj2qk
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) August 24, 2026
Selected 66th overall in 2024 as a presumed heir apparent to Conner, Benson finishes his Arizona tenure with modest numbers: 451 rushing yards and one touchdown on 92 carries to go with 123 receiving yards, across just 17 games in two seasons.
He got his best opportunity in 2025 when a season-ending injury to Conner opened the door, but he wasn't able to fully seize it.
With Benson gone, Arizona's running back room now sits at Love, Allgeier, Conner, Corey Kiner, and Bam Knight, a group that looks close to roster-ready with the August 30 cuts deadline approaching.
