As Week 2 approaches, fantasy football managers are scouring the waiver wire for hidden gems that could transform their rosters. Trey Benson’s expanded role in Arizona’s backfield has caught the attention of savvy owners looking for upside plays.
The second-year running back showed promising signs of increased involvement behind the aging James Conner, making him a compelling add for those seeking depth and potential breakout candidates. With Benson’s improved physicality and the Cardinals’ investment in his development, this could be the perfect time to stash a future RB1 before the competition catches on.
Should Trey Benson Be a Fantasy Football Waiver Wire Add in Week 2?
Rostered: 39%
Benson operated in his expected change-of-pace role behind Conner, but was way more involved than he was last season. The second-year back from Florida State has added muscle during the offseason and appears ready for increased responsibility.
At 30 years old with an injury history, Conner is more likely to get hurt than your average running back. The Arizona Cardinals invested a third-round pick in Benson, indicating long-term plans for his development. His limited 2024 usage (69 touches) was partly due to Conner’s career-best season, but any injury or decline in performance could thrust Benson into a significant role. The upside is evident from his brief productive stretches last season.
2nd year RB Trey Benson for 52 yards
AZvsNO on CBS/Paramount+https://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/0kWYCp0G2e
— NFL (@NFL) September 7, 2025
With Benson already showing increased involvement in Week 1 compared to last season, this could devolve into a full-blown timeshare. Benson handled eight carries to Conner’s 12. He may not be startable on his own, but he absolutely must be rostered.
Aggressiveness Rating: 5.0
Waiver Wire Watch: Benson Positioned for Breakout Opportunity
Benson may not yet be a locked-in fantasy starter, but his Week 1 usage makes him one of the most important stashes heading into Week 2. The Cardinals clearly view him as more than just a backup, and with Conner’s advancing age and durability concerns, Benson’s role could grow rapidly. Even in a limited sample, he displayed the burst and strength that made him such a highly regarded prospect out of Florida State.
READ MORE: Fantasy Waiver Wire Targets Week 2: Top Players to Add
Fantasy football success is often about anticipating opportunity before it fully arrives, and Benson fits that profile perfectly. He is already earning meaningful touches and would have immediate RB2 upside if pressed into a larger role. Managers should act now, as his value will only climb if Arizona shifts toward a timeshare or Conner’s workload inevitably lightens.
