As the New York Giants continue to evaluate roster options ahead of the 2026 NFL season, veteran running back James Conner of the Arizona Cardinals has emerged as a potential trade target.
In an early look at possible trade candidates, ESPN’s Dan Graziano connects Conner to both the Giants and Cincinnati Bengals.
The team signed Tyler Allgeier in free agency and used the No. 3 pick on Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love. Conner has been a great signing for the Cardinals, posting consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons from 2023 to 2024. But he turned 31, is coming off a major season-ending injury and has just one year left on his contract.
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. 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.
Conner, 31, has been a reliable performer throughout his career, amassing over 6,000 rushing yards and 60 touchdowns while adding significant receiving production. He posted consecutive 1,000-yard seasons with the Cardinals in 2023 and 2024 before a season-ending ankle injury limited him in 2025.
Arizona bolstered its backfield in free agency with Tyler Allgeier and selected highly touted Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love with the No. 3 overall pick in the draft, creating a crowded room that could prompt movement.
The Giants scoured the running back market during free agency and the draft but added only fullback Patrick Ricard. As such, New York could view Conner as a low-risk veteran addition if the trade cost remains minimal and he demonstrates full recovery. His experience, leadership, and dual-threat ability would provide valuable insurance and mentorship in a backfield looking to stabilize.
While the Cardinals may prefer to retain Conner as a contributor, one year remains on his contract following a recent pay cut. Any deal would likely hinge on his health and performance in training camp.
For the Giants, acquiring a battle-tested back like Conner could offer a prudent boost to their ground game without significant long-term commitment.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: New York Giants named potential trade fit for RB James Conner
Reporting by Dan Benton, Giants Wire / Giants Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Dan Benton, Giants Wire | USA TODAY Network
