The Arizona Cardinals saw their playoff hopes slip through their fingers last Sunday when they lost in overtime to the Carolina Panthers 36-30. The loss put an exclamation point on a disappointing slide for the Cardinals, who once led the NFC West at 6-4 before losing four of their next five games and falling out of the playoffs.
Now, as the Cardinals look to end their season on a high note over the final two games, they may have to do so without one of their most important players. Star running back James Conner is dealing with a knee injury and his status for Saturday night’s clash against the Los Angeles Rams is uncertain.
Conner was a limited participant in practice Tuesday and Wednesday as the Cardinals prepare to begin a short week. Conner has been a key part of this Cardinals offense that has run the football very well this season, and Arizona would take a huge hit if he was unable to suit up.
Conner’s replacement, rookie running back Trey Benson, is also questionable and was limited in practice this week due to an ankle injury. If both can’t go, the Cardinals would really be hurting for running backs. Emari Demercado was placed on injured reserve with a back injury, so journeyman DeeJay Dallas would be next in line if injuries keep Conner and Benson out of the lineup.
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Conner has been extremely productive as a runner and receiver so far this season. He has totaled 1,090 yards and eight touchdowns on 232 carries in 15 games this year, while adding 410 yards and a touchdown on 45 catches. That production helped him earn a contract extension earlier this season.
For a Cardinals offense that has seen quarterback Kyler Murray play inconsistent football this season, Conner has been the unit’s stabilizing force. Arizona has also struggled to find a wide receiver who emerges as a true No. 1 option, so Conner has always been the most reliable offensive weapon for Jonathan Gannon and company.
