The NFL rumor mill is heating up, and three major franchises are reportedly circling the same high-value target: Arizona Cardinals Pro Bowl running back James Conner. According to an NFL insider, the Dallas Cowboys, Washington Commanders, and Kansas City Chiefs are among the top suitors for the 31-year-old veteran, who carries a $3 million price tag.
The Cardinals have made significant moves in their backfield this offseason, signing former Falcons RB Tyler Allgeier in March and drafting Notre Dame star Jeremiyah Love with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. With that crowded roster, Arizona may be ready to part ways with Conner—a decision that has sparked interest from teams looking to bolster their ground game.
ESPN’s Mike Clay recently floated the Cowboys, Commanders, and Chiefs as logical landing spots for the Pittsburgh product, alongside the Colts, Bengals, Packers, and Browns. The reasoning is clear: Dallas needs a reliable backup for Javonte Williams, Washington lacked a 1,000-yard rusher last season, and Kansas City saw Patrick Mahomes nearly out-rush Isiah Pacheco—despite Mahomes’ unimpressive 4.80-second 40-yard dash time. That last stat alone should make Chiefs fans eager for an upgrade.
For the Cowboys, adding Conner could create a formidable rushing attack to complement their dynamic wide receiver duo of CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens. Imagine pairing that aerial threat with a proven, physical back like Conner—it’s a blueprint that could make Dallas a nightmare for defenses.
Conner’s résumé speaks for itself: 3,763 rushing yards, 1,292 receiving yards, and 48 total touchdowns in five seasons with the Cardinals. Yes, he suffered a season-ending foot injury in Week 3 of the 2025-26 campaign, but he underwent successful surgery and is expected to be fully healthy by the new season. That durability, combined with his Pro Bowl pedigree, makes him a low-risk, high-reward option for any contender.
Whether it’s the Cowboys, Commanders, or Chiefs, one thing is certain: Conner’s next move could reshape the NFC and AFC playoff pictures. Keep your eyes on Arizona—this trade saga is just getting started.