James Conner: Arizona Cardinals handed massive update on his knee injury

NEW DELHI: The Arizona Cardinals are dealing with yet another blow to their 2023 season as running back James Conner's knee injury has raised concerns within the franchise. Conner, the team's leading rusher, was having a standout year until a knee injury sidelined him in Week 5. With the Cardinals facing a challenging season, this injury to their star player is a significant setback.

James Conner's journey to the injured reserve was confirmed by NFL insider Tom Pelissero. This move resulted from the knee injury he sustained during the Cardinals' Week 5 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. As a result of his placement on the injured reserve, Conner is required to fulfill a four-game absence. Having initially entered the reserve during Week 6, he is eligible to return to the field anytime following Week 9.


Conner's injury unfolded during a remarkable 35-yard run in the Cardinals' contest against the Bengals in Week 5. Upon feeling his knee tweak, Conner made a swift exit from the field, heading down the tunnel and leaving the game. Post-game assessments led to a decision to place him on the injured reserve, where he currently remains, as the team prepares for their Week 9 showdown against the Cleveland Browns.

The earliest possible return date for Conner is in Week 10 when the Cardinals take on the Atlanta Falcons. This timeline aligns with the mandatory four-week absence period required after being designated to the injured reserve. In the meantime, the Cardinals will rely on backup running backs Tony Jones Jr. and Emari Demercado to carry the load at the running back position. Although unproven commodities, they will need to deliver their best performances to help the team recover from their challenging 1-7 start to the season.