Who Should I Start? James Conner or Javonte Williams

Thursday, May 29, 1:04 PM

Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (knee) took part in voluntary organized team activities on Wednesday. "I'm ready," Conner said. "We ain't doing this forever." Conner injured his right knee in Week 16 of last year and had six touches before being pulled in Week 17. The Cardinals placed him on Injured Reserve for the Week 18 regular-season finale, but the 30-year-old veteran appears to be fine now and ready to go for the start of the 2025 season this fall. He racked up a career-high 1,518 scrimmage yards on 236 carries while catching 47 of 55 targets in 2024. It was the healthiest Conner had been in his career, so fantasy managers definitely should expect some more missed time given his age and physical running style. For now, he's still being considered a workhorse back in Arizona, but more injuries could give Trey Benson more of a role eventually.

Monday, August 11, 11:44 AM

Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams "continues to see the most reps with the starters" among the team's backfield candidates, according to Jon Machota of The Athletic. With Miles Sanders (knee) and Jaydon Blue (ankle/heel) both dealing with injuries, Williams may be a lock to open the season as the lead running back in Dallas. In 17 games for the Denver Broncos last season, Williams rushed for 513 yards and four touchdowns on 139 carries. He profiles as a mid-tier RB4 in fantasy whose upside lies in the potential volume of available touches in the Cowboys' backfield.