GLENDALE –News that the Arizona Cardinals had reached a revised deal with James Conner , first reported by NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, didn't just create headlines. It ignited a full-scale debate across Cardinals fandom.
Sep 21, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; Arizona running back Conner (6) avoids the tackle by. San Francisco 49ers cornerback Deommodore Lenoir (2) during the first half at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
One side celebrated immediately. For those fans, Conner represents the emotional heartbeat of the offense. His physical running style, leadership, and willingness to grind for extra yards have made him a fan favorite since arriving in Arizona. Supporters point to the numbers and the intangibles. Before a foot injury against the San Francisco 49ers derailed his most recent season after just three games, Conner had been one of the most reliable players on the roster. He rushed for 1,040 yards in 2023 and followed it with 1,094 in 2024, production that came even while the offensive line was still evolving. To many fans, letting that kind of toughness walk away would have been a mistake.
Nov 13, 2022; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald (99) tackles Arizona running back Conner (6) for a loss in the second half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Another portion of the fan base reacted with mixed feelings. They respect what Conner has done, as few dispute his impact, yet they were hoping Arizona would turn the page at running back during the draft.
Nov 22, 2025; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jeremiyah Love (4) runs the ball against the Syracuse Orange during the first half at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael Caterina-Imagn Images
That hope largely centered around Jeremiyah Love, the explosive Notre Dame runner whose blend of speed and vision has fueled talk of generational upside. For fans dreaming about a young offensive centerpiece to grow alongside whoever their new QB will be, the possibility of drafting Jeremiyah Love represented a swing for the future. Conner's return likely ends that conversation. So the mood across Cardinals fans isn't purely celebration or frustration, it's something in between. One half sees the return of a proven tone-setter, while the other sees the road not taken.
