Michael Carter's experience shows just how brutal the NFL can be - being released just days before the start of the 2024 NFL season.
Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon was asked why the running back did not play in the team's preseason finale against the Broncos , which Denver won 38-12. Gannon told reporters a 10-word response on why the 25-year-old was inactive, though he did not specify exactly what he meant.
"Saw enough from what we needed to see from him," Gannon shared. And if what Gannon said is correct, he and the rest of the Cardinals organization saw enough to release Carter.
Carter's stats in preseason left much to be desired, with the 25-year-old rushing for 50 yards on nine carries. Though his stats did not impress the Cardinals enough to keep him on the roster, the running back was able to prove he was an important veteran to younger players such as rookie Trey Benson.
Though Carter had been in the league since 2021, Benson noted how the two clicked instantly, to the point where outsiders might have believed the two had known each other "for years" before making it to the NFL. In an interview with ESPN, the rookie shared what it meant to be playing on the same team as Carter, who he had been watching since he starred at the University of North Carolina.
"He's a big brother to me," Benson told ESPN . "So, he's been watching over me and telling me what I need to work on because he's been in the league longer than me."
For example, Carter took Benson to the side after one practice and explained how he needed to have a better base to be a more effective blocker. "I just really appreciate him for that," the running back said. "He ain't had to do that."
To Carter, the Cardinals selecting Benson with the 66th pick in the 2024 NFL Draft was something he did not foresee, especially considering the depth already on the squad before the 22-year-old was drafted. As it stands, the Cardinals were relying on James Conner, DeeJay Dallas, and Emari Demercado along with Benson and Carter - before he was released - to have an impact.
"I didn't even know we were going to draft a running back," Carter said. "But when we did and it was him, I was happy because he's a good guy."
Despite being three years older than Benson, Carter explained how he was open to getting criticism from a player he saw at the NFL combine. "It's like a mentorship in a way but ultimately it's like a brotherhood," Carter continued. "Like, if I do something wrong, he's going to tell me too."
Carter and Benson will now head their separate ways after Arizona's decision, just days after Gannon explained how the team had seen all they needed to see from the running back.
Local News
