Andrew Buller-Russ
The Arizona Cardinals delivered the first mini-surprise of the 2026 NFL Draft, selecting Notre Dame star running back Jeremiyah Love with the third overall pick in the first round. While Love can help transcend an offense without an identity, it likely means that James Conner’s days in Arizona are numbered.
Now that Love is the unquestioned RB1 in Arizona, let’s evaluate some potential trade destinations for Conner, who’s a two-time Pro Bowler with a pair of 1,000-yard seasons to his name.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers believe they have their RB of the future in last year’s first-round selection Omarion Hampton. They also brought in a speedster in Keaton Mitchell. Yet, a Harbaugh team can never have enough running backs, and Conner is a proven bruiser who is one of the NFL’s toughest players. He’d fit in just fine with the Bolts.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars let Travis Etienne sign with the Saints this offseason, and 2025 fourth-round pick Bhayshul Tuten may not be ready for the leading role. Expect the Jaguars to add an RB in the next two days, but if not, why not consider trading a Day 3 draft pick for a proven stopgap like Conner? He’s just one year removed from a 1,094-yard, 8 TD season. At the very least, he’d buy the Jaguars more time to find a long-term solution.
Las Vegas Raiders
Ashton Jeanty is the Raiders’ future. Yet, after a rough rookie season, Las Vegas likely wants to boost the competition in its RB room. Jeanty will undoubtedly still be the starter, but having a veteran like Conner, who’s had to work tirelessly to earn and keep his role, could be invaluable for a young athlete like Jeanty.
Related: Las Vegas Raiders Final 7-Round Mock Draft
Dallas Cowboys
After a 1,200-yard season, Javonte Williams is the Cowboys’ lead back. But after him? There are some depth questions in Dallas. The Cowboys have four others on the roster, clearly trying to find a reliable backup and potentially a future RB1. Conner won’t be a future RB1, but he’ll erase all doubts about the Cowboys having enough to work with in the RB room.
Related: Final 2026 NFL Mock Draft: Projecting Round 1 With Trades
