Cardinals Make Key Decision on James Conner’s Future with Team Ahead of 2024 NFL Season

As the Arizona Cardinals prepare for a pivotal 2024 NFL season, the organization has made a significant decision regarding running back James Conner’s future with the team. In a move that could impact the team’s offensive plans, sources confirm that the Cardinals have decided to retain Conner for at least one more season, despite ongoing questions surrounding the team’s overall direction.

Conner, 29, has been a reliable, if often underappreciated, presence in Arizona’s backfield since joining the team in 2021. After a career-high 18 touchdowns during his first year with the Cardinals, the former Pittsburgh Steeler had another solid, if less explosive, season in 2023, finishing with 874 yards and 7 touchdowns in 14 games. However, concerns about Conner’s ability to stay healthy, along with the team’s rebuilding phase under new leadership, had led many to speculate that the Cardinals could opt to part ways with him ahead of next season.

With Conner set to enter the final year of his contract, the decision was a crucial one for the Cardinals. Head coach Jonathan Gannon, who took over the team earlier this year, has prioritized creating a balanced offense capable of supporting whichever quarterback takes the helm for the 2024 season, be it Kyler Murray or a new addition via the draft. Conner’s leadership in the locker room and his ability to move the chains when needed are qualities the Cardinals believe will be important as they look to instill a more physical and efficient identity on offense.

Despite his occasional injury struggles, Conner has shown an ability to bounce back and provide value. His versatility in the passing game, paired with his no-nonsense running style, gives him an edge as the Cardinals’ primary backfield option moving forward. Conner’s toughness, both physically and mentally, also makes him a strong leader for a young team.

However, the Cardinals’ front office will need to closely monitor his health throughout the 2024 season. While Conner’s injury history isn’t crippling, it has led to missed games in each of the last two seasons. The team could look to add another running back through the draft or free agency to ensure they have depth at the position should Conner miss time.

The decision to keep Conner also sheds light on the broader strategy the Cardinals are embracing in their rebuild. With a franchise quarterback like Kyler Murray already under contract, the team appears committed to surrounding him with a balanced offensive attack. As Murray looks to regain his form following a torn ACL suffered in 2022, the presence of a veteran running back like Conner could help take pressure off his shoulders and give the offense a more predictable, efficient ground game.

In addition to his performance on the field, Conner has become a beloved figure in the Arizona community, with his charitable work and positive attitude making him a fan favorite. His return to the Cardinals’ roster is likely to be welcomed by both his teammates and supporters alike, as the team looks to build a culture of resilience and hard work under the new coaching staff.

Looking ahead, the Cardinals’ decision on Conner’s future may only be the first of many moves in a busy offseason. While they continue to assess their roster and evaluate their options at quarterback, Conner’s stability in the backfield will remain an important component of their plans for 2024.

For now, Conner remains an integral part of the team’s rebuild, and with a strong, healthy 2024 campaign, he could further solidify his legacy with the Cardinals, helping guide the team through what promises to be an exciting season of change and growth.