The Arizona Cardinals' star running back James Conner is at the center of trade speculation as the new season approaches. While multiple teams have been linked to him, the Cincinnati Bengals and New York Giants have emerged as the most likely landing spots.
Which teams are interested in James Conner?
In recent weeks, several rival teams have been connected to Conner. According to NFL insiders, the Cincinnati Bengals, New York Giants, and Dallas Cowboys have all shown interest.
What are insiders saying about the trade rumors?
ESPN's Dan Graziano recently noted, "Conner accepted a pay cut this past spring, so it's possible he's in their plans and that someone such as Trey Benson is more likely to get traded to alleviate the logjam at running back." He added, "But it feels like one of the Cardinals' six RBs has to go, and a team looking for a reliable veteran back could make a move for Conner if he's having a hard time getting carries. The Bengals and Giants jump to mind; they were looking for running back help this offseason but didn't bring in much."
Contract details and salary cap implications
James Conner has one year remaining on his contract after signing a revised one-year, $3.0 million deal, making him an unrestricted free agent in 2027. Trading him would clear $2.58 million in immediate cap space for the Cardinals, but they would incur $2.25 million in dead money from his prorated signing bonus. For an acquiring team, the cap hit is $2.58 million, covering the remaining base salary, workout, and active roster bonuses. The projected return is a late-round pick, likely a sixth-round selection, due to Conner's age and 2025 injury history.
How could the trade impact the teams?
For the Arizona Cardinals, trading Conner saves $2.58 million in cap space, enabling them to sign younger players. For the Cincinnati Bengals, acquiring Conner is affordable, as his $2.58 million contract easily fits into their $16.5 million cap space. His presence could support quarterback Joe Burrow. For the New York Giants, the trade is also cost-effective, given their $10.04 million in cap space, and Conner would provide a reliable veteran option in the backfield.
