James Conner: The Power Behind Arizona Cardinals’ Success

TEMPE, Ariz. — In a recent reflection, James Conner, the Arizona Cardinals‘ notable running back, revisited a pivotal moment from the current NFL season when he played a defining role in a crucial victory against the Miami Dolphins. On October 27, with just five minutes remaining in the fourth quarter at Hard Rock Stadium, the Cardinals needed a field goal to secure victory.

Prior to this play, Conner had struggled, managing just 24 yards on 13 carries against a strong Miami defense that had concentrated on stifling the run. However, in a dramatic play from midfield, Conner broke through arm tackles, gaining substantial yardage that set up the winning field goal.

«I’m really thinking, ‘Don’t go down,'» Conner remarked to The Athletic. His performance has been a crucial element in Arizona’s recent success, propelling the team to a 6-4 record and the top of the NFC West standings. Cardinals left tackle praised Conner’s ability to «take energy away from the defense,» emphasizing his role in the team’s momentum.

The 28-year-old Conner has effectively embodied the physicality that head coach Jonathan Gannon aims to foster in his team, consistently serving as a «primary power source.» His style, reminiscent of the hard-nosed play encouraged by his brothers during childhood, sees him leading the NFL in broken tackles among running backs.

Conner’s journey to the NFL is marked by resilience and determination, attributes that were evident during his college years at the University of Pittsburgh. Transitioning from a defensive end to a formidable running back, he overcame personal health challenges, including a battle with Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

His story at Pittsburgh, where he earned All-America recognition and ACC Player of the Year honors, includes an inspiring battle with cancer. Conner documented his recovery journey in The Players’ Tribune, later penning a motivational book titled «Fear is a Choice: Tackling Life’s Challenges with Dignity, Faith and Determination.»

Within the Cardinals’ camp, Conner continues to set a precedent, with teammate Benson highlighting him as an exemplary mentor. Benedict attributes his professional growth in part to Conner’s influence on training, nutrition, and recovery.

Hailed for his meticulous attention to personal fitness and recovery, Conner’s regimen includes rigorous workouts, maintained since his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers, which have contributed to his sustained performance on the field.

Conner’s inspiring journey from college accolades to his professional career in the NFL underscores his enduring commitment to excellence, mirroring the same tenacity and focus he displayed in overcoming Hodgkin’s lymphoma.