The Arizona Cardinals have lost second-year running back Emari Demercado for at least the remainder of the regular season, as he was placed on injured reserve on Saturday with a back injury.
His absence will change the dynamic of the running back room and their roles in Week 15 when the Cardinals face the New England Patriots.
Because Michael Carter was not elevated to the active roster, the Cardinals will only have three backs available.
Demercado’s role was as the team’s third-down back, so someone’s role is about to expand.
Based on what we saw in the preseason, the most likely change is that DeeJay Dallas, who plays almost exclusively on special teams and is the team’s primary kick returner, will fill the role. That would cause the least disruption. He worked the third-down role in the preseason.
If it isn’t him, James Conner could see his role expanded or rookie Trey Benson could play the role, something he hasn’t done really this season.
The role is primarily as a blocker in pass protection, but he will also have to catch passes and can be expected to get carries on draw plays.
Dallas has played only five offensive snaps this season.
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