GLENDALE – News that the Arizona Cardinals had reached a revised deal with James Conner, first reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, didn’t just create headlines. It ignited a full-scale debate across Cardinals fandom.
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Sep 21, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; Arizona running back Conner (6) avoids the tackle by. San Francisco 49ers cornerback Deommodore Lenoir (2) during the first half at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
One side celebrated immediately. For those fans, Conner represents the emotional heartbeat of the offense. His physical running style, leadership, and willingness to grind for extra yards have made him a fan favorite since arriving in Arizona. Supporters point to the numbers and the intangibles. Before a foot injury against the San Francisco 49ers derailed his most recent season after just three games, Conner had been one of the most reliable players on the roster. He rushed for 1,040 yards in 2023 and followed it with 1,094 in 2024, production that came even while the offensive line was still evolving. To many fans, letting that kind of toughness walk away would have been a mistake.
Nov 13, 2022; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald (99) tackles Arizona running back Conner (6) for a loss in the second half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Another portion of the fan base reacted with mixed feelings. They respect what Conner has done, as few dispute his impact, yet they were hoping Arizona would turn the page at running back during the draft.
Nov 22, 2025; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jeremiyah Love (4) runs the ball against the Syracuse Orange during the first half at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael Caterina-Imagn Images
Cardinals fans have mixed reactions to James Conner’s return:
This is 100% the right move assuming he recovered from the injury, he was literally the engine of that offense.
— terminator (@iIlbeback) March 8, 2026
I’m quite surprised by that. Good to see him keep his job 💯
— Darko (@DarkoMetaX) March 8, 2026
Love to have him back ! He’s an all time favorite of mine , but i also wanted Jeremiah love
— angrycardsfan 🏈 (@angrycards) March 8, 2026
I’d rather draft Love
— Cedric Mussi (@CedricMussi) March 8, 2026
This was a critical move. JC’s leadership and competitiveness are off the charts. Also, very classy of Trey Benson to repost this news. Shows the great culture and camaraderie in that RB room.
— All Sports Truther (@TrutherAll) March 8, 2026
No Jeremiyah Love then 💔💔💔
— LaFluer_Era #ISIAHSIMMONSISTHEGOAT (@LaFleur_Era) March 8, 2026
Huge win for Mike LaFleur in terms of veteran leadership AND talent.
— Frankie Merrick (@FranklyArizona) March 8, 2026
Yesssss!! Conner’s presence alone lifts people up. He isnt a product of schemes, he is pure heart and determination. Few players like him, few people like him… period.
— Bub (@Bub873920958455) March 8, 2026
I don’t like James Conners game. Feel like it’s time for the Cardinals to upgrade
— OH_sam_IO (@Splays_50) March 8, 2026
Welp. There goes Jeremiyah Love……💔
— Jared Sweetwater (@JaredSweetwater) March 8, 2026
At 31 and coming off just three games last season, this deal is basically the Cardinals saying: when healthy, he’s still our guy. 🏈
— TheRave🥀 (@meekrose) March 8, 2026
That hope largely centered around Jeremiyah Love, the explosive Notre Dame runner whose blend of speed and vision has fueled talk of generational upside. For fans dreaming about a young offensive centerpiece to grow alongside whoever their new QB will be, the possibility of drafting Jeremiyah Love represented a swing for the future. Conner’s return likely ends that conversation. So the mood across Cardinals fans isn’t purely celebration or frustration, it’s something in between. One half sees the return of a proven tone-setter, while the other sees the road not taken.
James Conner set to return to Arizona Cardinals on revised deal
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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
