When you hear “James Conner,” most American football fans think of a hard-running, hard-hitting running back who doesn’t shy away from the grind. Whether you follow the NFL because of your favorite team, your fantasy roster, or just love watching ferocious ground games, you’ve probably asked: Who picks up the slack if Conner goes down? In this post, we’ll break down who is James Conner’s backup, what that role entails, and why knowing this matters for both die-hard fans and fantasy football players across the U.S.
Background: Who Is James Conner & Why Backup Matters
James Conner is a veteran running back, widely respected for his power running style and ability to convert tough yardage. But in the NFL, depth is everything. Backups aren’t just insurance policies — they’re part of the game plan, stepping in during injuries, rotations, or high-pressure situations. For fantasy football managers, the identity of a backup could be the difference between winning and losing a week.
Current Backup(s) to James Conner
The current backup situation behind Conner depends on the official team depth chart. Sometimes it’s a young player being groomed to take more reps, other times it’s a committee of backs who share duties based on specific scenarios. One runner might handle short-yardage plays, while another takes on passing downs. In the modern NFL, it’s rarely just a single “next man up.”
Case Study: Recent U.S. Season Example
For example, if Conner missed time midseason, the backup on the roster often gained a significant increase in touches, occasionally even scoring a touchdown or two. This can turn a backup into a fantasy sleeper overnight, rewarding managers who planned ahead. Meanwhile, other role players — like a third-down receiving back — might quietly rack up PPR points, proving that backups can be just as valuable as starters in the right circumstances.
What Backup Means for Fans & Fantasy Players
For fans, this backup depth is peace of mind. No one wants to see their team’s offense stall if the starter gets banged up. For fantasy managers, it’s a strategic edge — stashing the right backup on your bench before an injury or bye week hits can make all the difference. And for teams themselves, backups are part of a larger strategy that balances contracts, player health, and long-term roster planning.
Recent reports and preseason updates often highlight which backup running back is impressing coaches and climbing the depth chart. Rumors of trades or late-season signings can also shuffle the order quickly. Fantasy analysts constantly project which players will benefit most if Conner sits, making this an ever-changing storyline worth watching closely.
Conclusion
Knowing who is James Conner’s backup isn’t just roster trivia — it matters for game outcomes, fantasy football matchups, and even betting lines. Whether you’re rooting for your team, planning your fantasy strategy, or keeping an eye on injury updates, backups are more important than ever in today’s NFL.
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FAQs
Who is currently James Conner’s backup running back?
That depends on his team’s latest roster moves and depth chart; usually the second-string back steps up.
How many carries does Conner’s backup typically get?
It varies — often in relief, short yardage, goal line, or when Conner needs rest. Could be 15-30% of carries in some games.
Does the backup get used on passing downs or special teams?
Sometimes. Many teams have a “third down” back who is better at catching passes, and some backups play on special teams.
What should fantasy managers do regarding backup running backs?
Monitor standings, injury reports, and practice updates. Adding backups with upside is a smart bench move, especially before bye weeks.