Should I Start James Conner?

James Conner Facing Age and Injury Questions Heading into 2026

Friday, January 30, 3:31 PM

Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (ankle) had his 2025 season cut short when he suffered a season-ending ankle injury in Week 3. The veteran running back was a productive player as recently as 2024, when he recorded 1,508 scrimmage yards and nine touchdowns on 283 touches across 16 games played. However, he will enter the 2026 season at 31 years old and less than a year removed from significant ankle surgery, bringing his future fantasy viability into question. The Cardinals spent most of the 2025 season without both of their top running backs, as 2024 third-round pick Trey Benson (knee) did not play after Week 4 due to a knee injury. While Benson's injury status clouds his future outlook as well, Arizona appears headed for a backfield split. The team could also bring in additional talent at the position through free agency or the draft heading into 2026. Given his age and unclear health status, Conner's fantasy value in both redraft and dynasty formats is currently trending in the wrong direction.

Start Joe Mixon or James Conner?

Start James Conner or Aaron Jones Sr.?

Start James Conner or D'Andre Swift?

Start James Conner or Brian Robinson Jr.?

Start James Conner or Isiah Pacheco?

Start James Conner or Chuba Hubbard?

Start James Conner or Quinshon Judkins?

Start James Conner or TreVeyon Henderson?

Start James Conner or Kaleb Johnson?

Start James Conner or Omarion Hampton?

Start James Conner or Jaylen Warren?

Start James Conner or RJ Harvey?

Start James Conner or David Montgomery?

Start James Conner or Jacory Croskey-Merritt?

Start James Conner or Tyrone Tracy Jr.?

Start James Conner or Javonte Williams?

Start James Conner or Jordan Mason?

Start James Conner or Rhamondre Stevenson?

Start James Conner or J.K. Dobbins?

Start James Conner or Travis Etienne Jr.?