The Arizona Cardinals are looking to notch their second-straight win and claw their way back into the NFC West race. At 3-4, the Cardinals still have a shot at the postseason, and having running back James Conner could help them beat the 5-1 Minnesota Vikings in Week 8.
But Conner is dealing with a rib injury that caused him to miss Week 7 against the Saints. We have the latest injury update on Conner and a breakdown of whether you should put him into your lineup if he’s active.
James Conner Injury Update
Conner has been one of the most disappointing fantasy running backs in 2022. The Cardinals’ breakout goal-line star has suffered the most as the entire offense has been disjointed and uninspired. One year after logging 40 red-zone carries, Conner is on pace for only 21, which is a significant drop when that’s his main value.
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As RB41, Conner’s biggest contributions to any fantasy roster have come with just being on the field. He’s not a good, effective producer. I even dropped him in one of my leagues because his upside is all about his ability to reach the end zone. But the Cardinals aren’t getting there this season.
With 54 carries for 200 yards and 14 receptions for 103 yards, fantasy managers are hoping Conner can find the efficiency Eno Benjamin found in Week 7. However, Benjamin may have simply grabbed the RB1 job from Conner when the big man is back in the lineup. Benjamin notably scurried for a 45-yard score, showing explosiveness Conner can only dream of.
Playing against Minnesota in Week 8 could quell concerns over Conner’s role within the offense. The Vikings rank 16th in fantasy points allowed to running backs, being especially weak at allowing touchdowns to the position. Only six defenses have allowed more scores to backs.
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The rib injury can play a significant factor in Conner’s upside and usage. He missed practice on Wednesday, making his update on Thursday especially important. There’s no way you can start Conner if he misses practice again this week.
The threat of reinjury is especially scary. One hit can land Conner back in the locker room and open the door for Benjamin and others to take his role. With so many other backs having a more direct pathway to touches and more valuable touches, starting Conner even if he’s full-go, is still not a given.
If Conner is active, this is a favorable matchup if you need a low-end RB2 or Flex option. I’d consider exploring upgrades as soon as possible, but there’s the possibility Conner is about to see his value rise against this young Vikings defensive front.
I like that Conner has received at least nine carries in four of his five games played, with 55 yards in each of his last two. He’s also been active enough as a receiver to find some value. But I am far closer to making Conner a reserve until we see him reach the end zone or be the featured back than saying he’s a good solid starting option for your fantasy roster.