James Conner Out for Season After Serious Foot Injury

TEMPE, Ariz. — Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner will miss the remainder of the 2025 NFL season after suffering a serious foot injury during a game against the San Francisco 49ers, coach Jonathan Gannon announced Monday.

The injury occurred on September 21 in Santa Clara, California, when Conner was carted off the field after a 9-yard run in the third quarter of the game, which ended in a 16-15 loss for the Cardinals.

Initially believed to be an ankle injury, it was later confirmed to be a foot injury, necessitating surgery. Gannon expressed his disappointment, saying, “One of our leaders, a captain, you hate that it happens. I feel terrible, but I know he’ll take the right attitude and bounce back.”

Conner finished the game with nine carries for 22 yards and had signed a two-year contract extension in November 2024, which runs through the 2026 season. His $3.64 million salary for this season is guaranteed for injury.

Offensive coordinator Drew Petzing also commented on the impact of Conner’s loss, “I feel really bad. Anytime somebody gets hurt, you feel bad for the player. I think that’s where your mind goes first.”

In Conner’s absence, running backs Trey Benson, Emari Demercado, and Bam Knight will share the rushing duties. Benson, currently in his second year, has already rushed for 125 yards on 21 carries this season before Conner’s injury.

The Cardinals have placed Conner on injured reserve and promoted offensive lineman Demontrey Jacobs to maintain their roster’s balance. As for Conner’s return, no timeline has been set, but his season is now officially over due to the surgery.