New York Jets running back Breece Hall (20) runs against Arizona Cardinals cornerback Starling Thomas V (24) during the second quarter at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Nov. 10, 2024. © Michael Chow/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
GLENDALE – After being 31st in rushing yards last year, the Arizona Cardinals could be in the market for a 25-year-old fringe Pro Bowler to ramp up their production. A name connected to the franchise since last NFL trade deadline has been New York Jets running back Breece Hall. New York seems hesitant to give their fourth-year running back a long-term deal, more than likely to franchise tag him or let him walk.
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If Hall walks, ESPN’s Rich Cimini sees Arizona as a potential suitor to look out for during free agency.
Nov 10, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; New York Jets running back Breece Hall (20) dives past Arizona Cardinals cornerback Max Melton (16) during the second half at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Cimin on Hall’s incoming free agency and Cardinals interest:
“Presumably, Hall wants a deal that would put him among the top five in salary at his position, which means surpassing Alvin Kamara’s $12.25 million per year. One thing working against Hall is that it running backs won’t be a premium.
“Key number: He’ll be only 25, one of the reasons why he would be one of the most coveted free agents. The Arizona Cardinals, coached by former Jets offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur, could be a potential suitor.”
Feb 3, 2026; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur speaks to the media at the introductory press conference at the Cardinals training facility. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
New Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur has a connection with Hall, as the Jets offensive coordinator in 2022. The duo’s first year was Hall’s rookie season and LaFleur’s first year as a play caller, leading to middling production. LaFleur left the following offseason to the Los Angeles Rams, replaced by Arizona offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett. The 2023 season, under Hackett, was Hall’s first opportunity to carry an offense.
The 5’11 halfback ran for 994 rushing yards and caught 76 passes for 591 passing yards for a total of nine touchdowns. Despite the inconsistent quarterback play from Zach Wilson, Hackett was still able to draw up plays to get Hall open in pass game and backfield. The Cardinals have LaFleur and Hackett under the same roof, two coaches that understand Hall’s game perfectly.
Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (6) celebrates as he walks off the field after their 41-10 win over the Los Angeles Rams on Sept. 15, 2024, at State Farm Stadium in Glendale.
Last year, Hall had the most rushing yards of his career with 1,065 and is starting to be more comfortable as an in-between the tackle runner. Injuries to James Conner and Trey Benson puts their status and role in 2026 up in the air. At 30 years old, Conner is due $8 million next season, but the franchise could cut him and use the money to bring in a 25-year-old in his prime to head the run game for LaFleur and Hackett.
Full Cardinals HC Mike LaFleur’s coaching staff revealed
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
