Trey Benson not practicing Monday, Cardinals sign Michael Carter to roster

The Arizona Cardinals announced running back Michael Carter has been signed to the 53-roster from the practice squad with current RB1 Trey Benson not practicing on Monday.

Additionally, running back D’Ernest Johnson was signed to the practice squad and the 21-day practice window has been opened for defensive lineman Bilal Nichols.

Arizona (2-2) moved Benson to its top rushing option last week after losing James Conner for the season.

Carter, who was elevated to the active roster ahead of Thursday Night Football against the Seattle Seahawks, was put back on the roster on Monday with Benson not seen at practice.

In the first game without Conner, Benson registered eight rushes for 35 yards and had five receptions for 19 yards.

Carter logged one carry late for one yard against Seattle and has appeared in 10 total games across three seasons (2023-25) for the Cardinals.

Rookie cornerback Will Johnson, who has been dealing with a groin injury, was back practicing, a positive sign for someone who has missed two straight games.

A good sign ⬇️

Cardinals rookie CB Will Johnson (groin) back practicing on Monday. pic.twitter.com/B5lDPAzNw7

— Tyler Drake (@Tdrake4sports) September 29, 2025

Nichols was placed on the PUP list with a neck injury prior to the start of the 2025 regular season, which demands a player sits out a minimum of four games. The eighth-year pro signed a three-year contract with Arizona in March 2024 and last played on Oct. 13 last season against the Green Bay Packers.

The 6-foot-3, 300-pounder had 10 tackles (six solo) in six games with the Cardinals in 2024.

Johnson was also added for Arizona running back depth after spending a brief stint on the Baltimore Ravens practice squad this season.

Johnson last saw game action with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2024, appearing in 14 games and having 32 carries for 143 yards and 12 catches for 96 yards and no touchdowns.

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