Who Should I Start? James Conner or Javonte Williams

Monday, September 22, 6:34 PM

Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (ankle) underwent season-ending surgery on Monday after suffering a significant right ankle injury in the third quarter of Sunday's game. Conner was carted off with his ankle immobilized, and head coach Jonathan Gannon confirmed he won't return this season. With Conner sidelined, the Cardinals will turn to second-year back Trey Benson, who has been highly efficient, averaging 6.0 yards per carry (second among RBs). Gannon praised Benson before the season, noting he viewed both Conner and Benson as capable starters. Benson now projects as the lead option in Arizona's backfield, while Emari Demercado is expected to mix in behind him.

Wednesday, January 7, 1:33 PM

Dallas Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones said on Wednesday that re-signing running back Javonte Williams is at the top of the team's list of offseason priorities, according to Jon Machota of The Athletic. "We want to bring him back and sign him to a multiple-year deal," Jones said. It's not the first time the Cowboys have said this after the 25-year-old Williams exceeded expectations in his first year in Dallas in 2025. The former Denver Broncos RB had the first 1,000-yard rushing season of his career, gaining 1,210 yards and a career-high 11 touchdowns on the ground on 252 carries over 16 games. Williams added 35 receptions on 51 targets for 137 yards and two more scores to finish as the RB11 in half-PPR scoring. He finished the year on Injured Reserve due to a nagging shoulder injury, but he should be ready in plenty of time for Week 1 of the 2026 season. If he returns to Dallas, Williams should be the clear RB1 option out of the backfield.