This is a big development. The Cardinals have utilized a three-player backfield this season with starter James Conner commanding a hefty rushing share and a part-time passing-down role, rookie Trey Benson mixing in as a rotational rusher and Demercado operating as the primary passing-down back. With Demercado out, Conner should handle close to 100.0 percent of the pure passing-down snaps while Benson gets a slight rushing share boost.

Demercado offers little as a flex-worthy option but he remains entrenched as the Cardinals’ primary passing-down running back. If he were to miss Week 15, James Conner’s pass-catching potential could increase considerably. This is an injury to monitor for Conner managers and DFS purposes.

Demercado’s four receptions came on just seven pass routes, most of them in the second half as the Cardinals chased points. Demercado would figure to take on pass-catching duties and split the backfield with Trey Benson if James Conner were to miss time.

Demercado has been splitting the RB2 role with rookie Trey Benson, though the latter has pulled ahead in recent weeks. Benson could see a few extra carries if Demercado doesn’t suit up this week. The rookie is worth a stash in deeper leagues.