Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner was iffy to play on a short week in Week 17 after suffering a knee injury in Week 16. While Conner did suit up, he had to exit the game in the second quarter.
Here’s the latest on the Cardinals’ RB1.
What Happened to James Conner?
Conner was limited for all three practices this week after hurting his knee in Week 16 vs. the Carolina Panthers. Conner did not return to that game, raising questions about his Saturday availability, but he ended up playing and being active.
While no apparent aggravation occurred, backup running back Michael Carter played multiple series in a row after Conner was stuffed on a fourth-down run, raising some eyebrows.
Cardinals RB Michael Carter is in for the second straight drive after James Conner played the majority of the snaps on the first two.
Arizona being judicious with Conner as he deals with a knee injury.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) December 29, 2024
Broadcast cameras subsequently caught Conner being looked at by trainers on the sideline, with the running back shaking his head as well. Conner remained on the sidelines for the entirety of the game in his uniform and helmet, but never re-entered the game.
Conner had eight scrimmage yards (four rushing, four receiving) on six touches in Week 17. The fourth down run at 11:10 of the second quarter was his final touch of the game.
With the Cardinals also eliminated from playoff contention already, there might not be much incentive to push the 29-year-old back for another meaningless contest in Week 18.
Potential Fantasy Fallout From Conner’s Injury
Analysis via PFN’s Alex Kennedy
Fantasy managers breathed a sigh of relief when they found out that Conner would play against the Rams on Saturday, coming through for fantasy championship matchups.
However, starting Conner was always a bit of a risk given that he was banged up (and the fact that he was described as less than 100%). Unfortunately, he exited the game with an injury early in the second quarter.
When Conner left the contest, he had just four carries for four yards, plus two catches for four yards.
With Conner out and Trey Benson inactive, Michael Carter and DeeJay Dallas will fill in for the Cardinals.