GLENDALE – When the Arizona Cardinals committed to James Conner last November, it was a declaration of identity. Conner and the Cardinals agreed to a two-year contract extension worth $19 million and over $10 million guaranteed. Conner wasn’t just a running back; he was one of the offense’s tone-setters. Now the question is, will Conner remain with the Cardinals for the 2026 season, or will they move on in a money-saving move?
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Now, the future of Conner staying in Arizona could be a little murky. With the organization moving on from Kyler Murray, the Cardinals face a philosophical fork in the road. Conner and Murray were supposed to grow together, a dual-threat pairing built on balance. Without Murray, does Conner still fit the timeline?
Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (6) warms up before their preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs at State Farm Stadium on Aug. 9, 2025. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The data tells two stories. When healthy, Conner remains one of the league’s most efficient red-zone backs. He forces missed tackles at a top-10 rate among starting running backs. But he’s now coming off a significant right ankle injury, and history is unkind to veteran backs nearing 30 with heavy workloads.
Dec 15, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (6) leaves the field after the game against the New England Patriots at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Strategically, Arizona could designate Conner as a cap-saving move and pivot to youth, possibly targeting Notre Dame’s dynamic back Jeremiyah Love in the draft. That path aligns with a full rebuild with cheap labor, explosive upside, and long-term control. Here’s what Arizona fans understand that spreadsheets don’t: James Conner represents credibility. In a locker room potentially bracing for a quarterback reset, removing an emotional leader like him is hard to replace.
Jan 7, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona running back Conner (6) celebrates a touchdown against the Seattle Seahawks during the second half at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
If the Cardinals keep Conner, they will be prioritizing stability and culture during transition. If they move on, they’re accelerating a youth movement and embracing the new era. Either way, the decision will play a huge part in the Cardinals’ season in 2026.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
