The battle of Cardinals RB3 is heating up after preseason opener

Which Cardinals running back has the upper hand?

The favorite at the moment is Emari Demercado. He had the play of the night, scoring on a 43-yard RB screen to score Arizona’s first touchdown of the game. The third-year Cardinals halfback showcased his elusiveness by avoiding a handful on Chiefs defender on his way for the touchdown. Demercado was the game’s receiving leader and illustrated he can be Arizona’s receiving threat in the backfield, which would be a nice change compared to Conner and Benson.

The next option is for the franchise is Dallas. The 27-year-old was used strictly as a kick returner last season, and famously had a kick return touchdown in his debut. Despite his highs the previous year, Dallas had a rough start to Saturday’s game with a fumble on the opening kickoff. Dallas was 10th in total kick return yardage in the NFL during his 2024 campaign, but if his struggles continue in preseason he could be on the cutting room floor.

The player to have his stock rise the highest in the preseason opener was Zonovan “Bam” Knight. The 24-year-old entered the game in the 4th quarter and was a shot of adrenaline for the offense. In his first drive, Knight recorded 46 rushing yards, including a game-long 27 yard rush. Knight finished with 51 yards and had the highest yards per carry on the team.

Knight was playing against the Chiefs reserves and against more talented opponents could struggle to generate the same amount of yards. Regardless, against the competition in front of him, Knight was sensational and dynamic. At 5’11, 210 pounds, Knight is a much more speedy back compared to Conner and Benson, meaning he gives the Cardinals offense another layer for team’s to gameplan against.