Patriots are being urged to explore a trade for Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (Getty Images)
After a 45-17 win over the Las Vegas Raiders, New England has reason to feel good about its offense, but losing Henderson limits its depth. Conner is 31 and has not played since suffering a season-ending foot injury in Week 3 of the 2025 season. He managed just 95 rushing yards on 32 carries across three games before going down.
Leger pointed to the veteran’s uncertain role when he returns from injured reserve, writing: “Conner hasn’t played since Week 3 of last season due to a foot injury. NBC Boston’s Justin Leger has urged New England to consider Conner, whose future in Arizona looks less certain after the Cardinals drafted Jeremiyah Love and signed Tyler Allgeier. When he returns from IR, which should be soon, he won’t have a clear role on a Cardinals team that drafted rookie phenom Jeremiyah Love and signed the reliable Tyler Allgeier to back him up in the offseason,” wrote Leger.
The New England Patriots have a new problem in their backfield after TreVeyon Henderson suffered a high ankle sprain that is expected to keep him out for several weeks. The injury leaves Rhamondre Stevenson carrying more responsibility, with Corey Kiner among the few healthy options behind him. That has prompted a trade suggestion involving Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner, a veteran who could help the Patriots stay productive while Henderson recovers. The Patriots have reasons to avoid rushing into a deal. That recent history matters. New England would be trading for a player who must first prove he can return to his previous level, not simply relying on his past production. A move only makes sense if the medical outlook supports an immediate role. Stevenson remains capable of handling a larger workload, and his experience gives New England a reliable starting point. But leaning too heavily on him for several weeks could leave the offense short of options if another injury occurs. Kiner may get more chances, though asking an inexperienced player to fill Henderson’s role is a different challenge.