With the NFL’s new league year approaching, teams are making [decisions](http://Seattle Seahawks make a decision at running back) to get themselves in compliance with the salary cap. Teams like the Arizona Cardinals have tough decisions to make ahead of Wednesday.
One decision they had to make involved their Pro Bowl running back James Conner. Reports have indicated they will not be releasing him.
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Instead, the Cardinals have elected to restructure his contract. This provides the team more cap space for 2026 while retaining their fan-favorite tailback.
The Cardinals and two-time Pro Bowl RB James Conner have agreed to a revised contract to keep him in Arizona for 2026, sources say.
Conner played just three games last season because an ankle injury. But he’ll be back at age 31. pic.twitter.com/xYlucNRbJH
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 8, 2026
Conner, who came to the Cardinals through free agency in 2021, was entering the final year of his deal. His cap hit was just shy of $10M, and the Cardinals could have saved $7.5M with a release before Wednesday.
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Now, head coach Mike LaFleur will be able to keep the team’s lead running back for the 2026 season. The revised contract details are not currently available.
MORE: Cleveland Browns get huge cap relief help from Denzel Ward
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This is a great decision for the Cardinals. Conner is not only an excellent running back, but he is also an excellent story that every fan cheers for.
September 21, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (6) avoids the tackle by San Francisco 49ers cornerback Deommodore Lenoir (2) during the first half at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
Prior to being drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2017, Conner missed his 2015 season due to a cancer diagnosis. He battled his way back onto the field for the Pitt Panthers in 2016 in an incredible recovery.
Now, Conner will continue his story with the Cardinals, who have rewarded him with two extensions since he joined the team. Arizona now should turn its attention to free agency or the draft to get Conner and the offense their future quarterback.
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