Michael Carter

Michael Carter rushed five times for 18 yards in the Cardinals’ Week 16 loss to the Panthers, adding five receptions for 30 yards.

With Trey Benson (ankle) sidelined, Carter stepped in as the Cardinals’ lead back after James Conner suffered a third quarter knee injury. Conner spent a lot of time trying to get stretched out but never appeared particularly close to returning. With the Cardinals now eliminated from playoff contention, Carter could suddenly be the lead back for Week 17 against the Rams if Benson remains sidelined. Benson failed to log a single practice rep this week, so Carter’s odds of starting are probably better than 50-50, especially since Arizona has no incentive to risk anyone’s future health in Weeks 17 and 18,