Entering Week 5 with an underwhelming 1-3 record, the Arizona Cardinals could consider a James Conner trade if they can’t get their season back on track. After going 3-5 with a rusty Kyler Murray in 2023, Arizona believed they could surprise the league with a playoff run under Murray, head coach Jonathan Gannon, and star first-round pick Marvin Harrison Jr. While they’ve had their moments throughout the young season, it’s clear to see that the Cardinals aren’t quite ready to compete, especially with their current defense. Rather than holding on to older veterans like Conner, Arizona could send him to a contender in exchange for a future draft pick.
The writing was on the wall for Conner when the Cardinals used a third-round pick on running back Trey Benson. While the veteran remains the top running back in the offense, Arizona will want to see what they have in the Florida State product. Not only would a James Conner trade give the Cardinals ammunition to rebuild their defense, but it would also allow Benson the opportunity to prove himself in this league. Several teams could use another running back, with the Chargers, Cowboys, and Ravens near the top of the list.
Chargers, Cowboys, Ravens Top Suitors in James Conner Trade Talks
Jim Harbaugh loves running the football, but his team hasn’t done it too well in recent weeks. After taking the world by storm early in the season, former Raven J.K. Dobbins crashed back to Earth over the past two weeks. Free agent signee Gus Edwards, meanwhile, is looking like a bust while averaging just three yards per carry on the season. With Justin Herbert playing hurt and few reliable receivers, the Chargers could pull the trigger on a James Conner trade. Not only is Conner still a reliable rusher, but he’s a sound receiver who could make life easier for Herbert every time he drops back.
The Dallas Cowboys, meanwhile, have the worst backfield in football. Rico Dowdle is playing like a career journeyman and former star Ezekiel Elliott is well past his prime. This isn’t surprising, as both players were major question marks entering the season. Running back might not be the most important position in football, but Dallas needs more talent to win a competitive NFC East. James Conner might not be the youngest running back in football, but the trade candidate is still an effective player who would easily be the best all-around back on this roster.
Possible Backup Work
James Conner is a starting-caliber running back, but he might have to settle for backup duties in a potential trade. Derrick Henry might not be human, as the 30-year-old running back with 2,110 professional carries to his name currently leads the league with 480 rushing yards and five touchdowns while averaging an absurd 6.0 yards per carry. Henry is on his way to First-Team All-Pro honors, but Baltimore could use a reliable backup if injury strikes, and they could get one with a James Conner trade.
Justice Hill recently signed a two-year extension, but he’s better in a smaller role with special teams emphasis. 2023 undrafted free agent Keaton Mitchell, meanwhile, showed plenty of promise as a rookie but did so in a small sample and is coming back from a season-ending injury. If Baltimore believes he can recapture his rookie form, then they’ll have no reason to trade for James Conner. However, if they’re afraid he won’t be the same again, then they could add the veteran.
Main Photo: Patrick Breen – USA Today Sports
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