Fantasy Football Player Notes

James Conner is like a finely aged bourbon. He keeps getting better as the years are piling up. Since he arrived in Arizona, he has finished as the RB7, RB9, and RB13 in fantasy points per game. On a per-touch basis, last season might have been his best year to date. Despite ranking 21st in rushing attempts, he was sixth in rushing yards in the NFL. Conner showed no signs that Father Time was starting to creep in as he ranked seventh in explosive run rate, eighth in missed tackles forced per attempt, and fifth in yards after contact per attempt. Conner will likely lead this backfield in snaps in 2024, but, with the addition of Trey Benson to the fold, don't be shocked if the team splits the work more evenly this season. Conner is an RB2/3.

Benson will have to contend with a still-spry James Conner for touches all season. Yes, Conner hasn't played more than 13 games in a season over the last two years, so Benson could get some run as the team's starter in 2024. It's impossible to project that with the uncertainty of injuries, but it has to be mentioned. Even in a 1B role to Conner, Benson could make some noise with big plays. Over the last two collegiate seasons, Benson has ranked 10th and third in breakaway percentage and 42nd and first in elusive rating (per PFF). With an offense that ranked fourth in neutral script rushing rate last year, there should be enough rushing volume weekly for Benson to have flex viability. He's a priority handcuff this season with some standalone value.