The Dallas Cowboys have taken a decisive step to fortify their backfield this offseason, addressing a critical need for veteran depth behind newly re-signed lead back Javonte Williams. In a move that could reshape their ground game, Dallas is reportedly targeting Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner, a proven 1,000-yard rusher whose experience and physicality make him an ideal complement in what is suddenly one of the NFC’s most formidable running back rooms.
While the Cowboys strengthened the top of their depth chart by retaining Williams, the situation behind him has remained precarious. Malik Davis currently sits as the favorite for backup duties, but his limited résumé—just 90 career carries and inconsistent work as a pass-catcher—raises legitimate concerns. The rest of the group consists of young, unproven talents: Jaydon Blue, Phil Mafah, Israel Abanikanda, and rookie Dominic Richardson. Collectively, this quartet has logged just 165 NFL snaps, leaving the Cowboys’ running back room dangerously thin on experience.
Enter James Conner. At 31 and entering the final year of his contract, the veteran ball-carrier has been identified as a viable trade candidate by Pro Football Focus. Following a season-ending ankle injury that limited him to just three games in 2025, Conner’s future in Arizona grew uncertain after the Cardinals drafted Jeremiyah Love with the third overall pick and signed Tyler Allgeier for depth. The team also returns 2024 third-rounder Trey Benson, creating one of the most crowded backfields in the league.
Arizona, currently in rebuild mode, appears poised for a youth movement. With four capable running backs on the roster, a trade of the veteran Conner makes strategic sense. For the Cowboys, acquiring him could be a masterstroke.
Why Conner Fits Perfectly in Dallas
Williams shouldered the heaviest workload of his career last season before injury struck late in the year. While the missed playoffs softened the immediate impact, the Cowboys’ revamped defense and renewed postseason aspirations this season demand greater backfield reliability. A proven veteran like Conner provides exactly that insurance.
Even if he doesn’t immediately displace Williams, Conner’s presence would inject fierce competition into training camp, pushing the younger backs to elevate their game. Should he secure the RB2 role, his value would be immense. Conner excels in short-yardage and goal-line situations—the “dirty work” that helps preserve Williams’ health over a grueling 17-game slate. His proven dual-threat ability as both a runner and receiver also prevents defenses from keying in on obvious run or pass situations when he’s on the field.
Most importantly, if Williams were to miss time due to injury again, Dallas would not be forced to rely solely on inexperienced options. Conner brings significant starting experience and the toughness to shoulder an increased load, supported by Davis and Blue further down the depth chart.
Beyond production, Conner’s intangibles make him an attractive addition. Known for his strong locker room presence and leadership, he would provide valuable mentorship to Dallas’ young running backs while reinforcing the team’s culture—qualities the Cardinals valued enough to initially retain him despite his age and injury history.
The Trade Calculus
Should the Cowboys be able to acquire Conner for a Day 3 draft pick, it would represent outstanding value for Jerry Jones and the front office. The investment is relatively low-risk given Conner’s expiring contract, while the potential upside—elevating the entire running back room and protecting their lead back—is substantial.
With this addition, the Cowboys would suddenly boast one of the most experienced and balanced backfields in the NFC East. Javonte Williams as the explosive lead back, paired with James Conner’s hammer-like physicality and veteran savvy, creates a duo capable of controlling games on the ground and wearing down opposing defenses.
The NFC East just received a major wake-up call. If Dallas pulls off this trade, the Cowboys’ backfield may not only save Javonte Williams—it could power their entire offense.
