Who Should I Start? James Conner or Alexander Mattison

Friday, October 2, 12:05 PM

Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (foot) is progressing, but the team still isn't putting a date on his return. Head coach Mike LaFleur said Conner is doing well and reiterated that Arizona wants him back when he can perform at his normal level, not simply when he's able to get through a practice. Conner opened the season on injured reserve while continuing his recovery from the right foot injury that ended his 2025 season in Week 3. He can become eligible to practice next week after serving the required four-game absence, though the Cardinals have not said they will immediately open his 21-day window. That matters with Jeremiyah Love emerging as Arizona's lead back and Tyler Allgeier still involved. Conner is coming off back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons in 2023 and 2024, but fantasy managers should treat him as a deeper-league IR stash until there is a clearer return date and role.