Regardless of how the Cardinals handle quarterback Kyler Murray‘s contract situation, they have big decisions to make at a number of other positions. One of those is running back, where the possibility exists for both James Conner and Chase Edmonds to leave in free agency. If he has his way, though, general manager Steve Keim would bring back the pair.
[Related: Conner Interested In Returning To Arizona]
When speaking to the media, Keim said “it’s no secret, having James and Chase, in a perfect world, we’d want them both back”. He was quick to add, however, that “it’s a business and we’ll see what happens”. Conner has indicated a willingness to stay with the Cardinals, something that the team should make a high priority, given his success last year.
After getting a second chance to be a starter, the former Steeler put up 752 yards on the ground, along with 375 yards in the passing game. More notably, he scored 18 total touchdowns, ranking him second in the league behind only Jonathan Taylor. That makes him the likelier tailback to be given a new deal, one which would probably be worth more than the $1.75MM he played for in 2021.
As for Edmonds, he posted a career-high 903 scrimmage yards in 2021, despite missing five games. Injuries limited the amount of time both he and Conner were available simultaneously, but the tandem would have plenty of potential if both were to be re-signed. With Eno Benjamin on the roster, though, the Cardinals may already have Edmonds’ successor in place.
Ultimately, Keim reiterated his desire to keep the known commodities at the position, adding “I understand that analytically, it tells you that the best backs come as a whole in rounds three through six, but at the same time, when you have one that is a difference-maker or you think is special or brings something to the table like leadership and toughness, it’s hard to put a price on those guys”.
Whatever , Keim will go out and draft a player and play him out of position and cut him 2 years later. How many early picks has he wasted. Too many.
First round should be a receiver. Drake London
2nd round should be oline help
Bring back conner and find an edmonds replacement in the 3rd.
With Hopkins, Rondale Moore, Christian Kirk on the roster… Do you really think a Wide Receiver in any of the first three round makes sense? That’s a bit crazy. I’m always a fan of drafting offensive linemen. I’ll agree on that. But… This draft should be a defense focused draft for the Cardinals, all things being equal.
Christian Kirk is a free agent. So if they dont resign him/tag him or bring in a good #2 in free agency. Yes. Id say getting an outside #2 to take coverage off hopkins and put Moore in the slot would be a good draft investment.
link to spotrac.com
AJ Green is also a FA I think….seems like team possibly losing 2 receivers would keep Isabella …must be more there since trying to trade him.
Nah listen to ignasis and oooof. Hopkins and Moore are fine. Gonna make Murray really happy. Lmao. 2 wrs is fine. Who needs pass catchers.
Ooof what a seriously bad take and analysis. You even watch football? Seriously doubt it with all crap opinions. Next time i want an a holes thoughts ill fart.
London likely won’t last that long, and they have enough needs that prescribing a position to take at 23 is silly. If one of the very top offensive linemen, corners, or edge defenders falls, those would be just as legitimate to take.
Be silly to write off a position of need, wr, especially when youre qb is unhappy with the organization.
Wanna see what happens when you dont address wr? See aaron rodgers. Pay attention. Do better.
I mean, at least Rodgers has had a really good offensive line most of his career. Don’t get me wrong, London would be a strong fit for them, but a second round receiver might be a better value based on how the draft unfolds.