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James Conner has unexpectedly been one of the year's most intriguing yet productive fantasy options. After becoming a household name in 2018 by accumulating 13 total touchdowns, the 26-year-old quickly gained popularity, especially from those partaking in formats that reward one point per reception (PPR). However, the two subsequent years told another story, as Conner would battle with various injuries, resulting in nine regular-season absences during that span.
While he still had flashes of effectiveness at times, he ultimately wasn't the same player. As a result, the Steelers parted ways with the veteran and instead turned to Alabama back Najee Harris, who was selected with the 24th pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, to fill the void. As for Conner, he agreed to a one-year deal with Arizona. Yet, Chase Edmonds was anticipated to remain the lead option out of the backfield, resulting in the former Steeler being available heading toward the middle rounds of fantasy drafts in August and early September. However, he has played exceptionally well while--once again--establishing himself as one of the most reliable options on the fantasy end, when healthy. But is Conner healthy enough to play this week?
As we head into Week 15, let's assess the current situation within the Cardinals backfield heading into their Week 15 game against the Lions. Is James Conner going to play in Week 15? Should Conner be started if Chase Edmonds plays? Below we take a quick look at the updated injury status.
Is James Conner Playing In Week 15 Against The Lions?
Conner injured his ankle during the final play of the Monday Night Football showdown against the Los Angeles Rams. While an MRI revealed no substantial damage, things didn't look promising after he didn't practice on Wednesday and Thursday. Yet, the situation took a turn in the right direction after Kliff Kingsbury stated he expects Conner to play against Detroit, a statement that was reinforced by a limited practice session on Friday.
The Lions will be short-handed on Sunday, as the team will be without D'Andre Swift and T.J. Hockenson, with the latter to miss the remainder of the 2021 campaign because of a thumb injury. Yet, Arizona is also dealing with some injuries entering Week 15. DeAndre Hopkins will miss the rest of the regular season due to a knee issue, so, without a doubt, the Cardinals will be without an essential part of its offense. Having Conner on the field will be integral for the offense.
Should I Start James Conner in Week 15?
Conner has played in at least 82 percent of the team's snaps on offense throughout the last four games, a number that was much lower when Edmonds was in the lineup. Nonetheless, Conner will likely see a lighter workload against Detroit, assuming he plays, primarily since he practiced sparingly on Friday.
Chase Edmonds will likely be returning from injury, and he should also be back in the mix, so that's even more of a reason to believe he won't be as involved. Still, Conner has played too well to consider benching in most formats, although nobody would blame anyone who did.
How Does James Conner Impact the Cardinals' Offense?
Conner has 16 total scores this season, so having him out there in a limited capacity certainly isn't ideal. Undoubtedly, it would be even worse if he didn't play. Without question, the Cardinals have been one of the most effective squads inside the red zone this year. Conner can take credit for some--if not most--of that success.
He currently leads the league with 14 red zone touchdowns. Nonetheless, while there's a good chance Conner may concede touches to Edmonds and even Eno Benjamin, if given an opportunity, he should remain the preferred option inside the 20 and build on his impressive seven-game streak with at least one touchdown.
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