When the legal tampering window opened up on Monday, the first reported agreement was Falcons running back Tyler Allgeier. It came a day after the news of James Conner's restructured contract.
It was apparent to Allgeier that he was one of the Cardinals' top free agency priorities.
"I felt like it was going to be really good," Allgeier said during his introductory press conference on Thursday. "They showed a lot of interest. Shoot, they believe in me, so I believe in them."
Before the arrival of All-Pro running back Bijan Robinson, as a rookie in 2022 for Atlanta Allgeier rushed for 1,035 yards. While his role was limited after Robinson was drafted, Allgeier put up solid numbers. He ended the 2025 season with a career-high eight touchdowns.
With Conner and Trey Benson coming off season-ending injuries, Allgeier is in pole position for starting responsibilities.
"They haven't really discussed that, but more importantly, just to win is the main thing," Allgeier said. "Being able to compliment each other, however the rotation is going to go, and being able to do what we can to help this team win."
A self-described tough and physical runner, Allgeier's tape mirrors what Conner has brought to the Cardinals. According to Next Gen Stats, Allgeier has forced missed tackles on over 30 percent of his rushes since 2022. Pittsburgh's Jaylen Warren is the league leader at 33.8 percent.
It's unclear what a Mike LaFleur offense will look like in Arizona. If his time with the Rams indicated anything, outside zone run schemes will be implemented. Over the past two seasons, Allgeier was in the Top 10 in success rate on outside runs, which pairs well with a LaFleur offense that ran outside zone four times as much as the Cardinals did in 2025.
"How much success they had with the Rams and being able to bring it here, I think he's going to be really successful," Allgeier said. "They are bringing in all of the pieces to make it really good. A lot of excitement for this team and for this offense."
Part of those additions is adding depth to the running back room and the offensive line. Bam Knight agreed to terms on a one-year deal to return to the Cardinals in a move that can round out the running back room. The Cardinals also signed three offensive linemen, headlined by left guard Isaac Seumalo. Offensive tackle Elijah Wilkinson and versatile lineman Matt Pryor inked deals as well.
For a multitude of reasons, the Cardinals run game struggled in 2025. A healthy offensive line and backfield should help the unit return to its previous form as one of the better rushing attacks in the league. In Allgeier's case, he has only missed one game throughout his career, which makes the stat that he has never fumbled the football in the NFL all that more impressive.
How Allgeier sees the field is a byproduct of his time at BYU as a linebacker. The decision to solely focus on running back was met with skepticism. Ultimately, Allgeier wanted an opportunity to earn more playing time.
A role that will likely expand with the Cardinals.
"I think it's a great opportunity for me and great opportunity for the organization," Allgeier said. "I'm excited for it and just grateful to be trusted upon to be a part of this organization."
