Totals 94 yards from scrimmage

Conner (ankle) ran for 64 yards on 14 carries and caught all three of his targets for 30 yards during Sunday's 16-13 win over Cincinnati.

Analysis: After missing the past three games due to an injury, Conner returned to his role as the primary rusher for the season finale. With Le'Veon Bell in a season-long holdout, Conner stepped up and finished up the 2018 season with 215 carries for 973 yards (4.5 average) and 12 touchdowns. He also had 55 catches (on 71 targets) for 497 yards and one touchdown in 13 games. He has two years remaining on his current contract, and with Bell almost certainly playing for someone else next season, Conner…read more

Suits up Sunday

Conner (ankle) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Bengals.

Analysis: Conner -- who last suited up in Week 13 -- will give it a go Sunday, but it remains to be seen if he'll log as heavy a workload as he did prior to sustaining his ankle injury. With that in mind, Jaylen Samuels, who filled in well in place of Conner over the last couple of weeks, is available to spell Conner when needed in both early-down and obvious passing situations. On the plus side, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com relays that Conner "looked pretty fluid on a few cuts" when briefly testing out his…read more

Appears on track to play

Conner appears to be in line to play Sunday against the Bengals after testing out his ankle in warmups, Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: We'll confirm the running back's Week 17 status, either way, upon the release of the Steelers' inactives in advance of Sunday's 4:25 ET kickoff. However, at this time it looks like Conner is poised to return to action following a three-game absence.

True game-time decision

Conner (ankle) did less in practice this week than initially perceived and is a true game-time decision, Fox's Jay Glazer reported on their pregame show Sunday morning.

Analysis: The general expectation was that Conner would play, but now it appears that isn't as certain. Moreover, even if he plays, he may not be as heavily used in the offense as initially expected.

Likely to play Week 17

Conner (ankle), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Bengals, will be evaluated after a pregame warmup, but the expectation is that he'll suit up, a source told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

Analysis: Even though Conner put in a trio of full practices this week, the Steelers want to be sure the sprained ankle that sidelined him for the past three games isn't an issue in the hours leading up to the contest before his status is confirmed. Assuming Conner avoids any setbacks in the workout and gains clearance to suit up, he'll likely take back his starting role, but not necessarily the huge volume he previously enjoyed. Jaylen Samuels has thrived as the lead back in Conner's absence, which…read more

Game-time decision

Conner (ankle) will have his status for Sunday's game against Cincinnati determined after he participates in pregame warmups, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Conner, who has missed the last three games, took a questionable tag into the weekend despite practicing fully Wednesday through Friday. The running back is determined to play, but the team wants to get a look at him on the field prior to making a decision. If Conner suits up, there's a chance he could see lower usage than normal coming off injury, especially after Jaylen Samuels thrived in his absence.

Questionable, but expected to play

Conner (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Bengals after practicing fully all week.

Analysis: Per Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Conner, who missed the Steelers' past three games with a high-ankle sprain, is expected to play this weekend after logging full practices throughout the week. Official confirmation of the running back's Week 17 status will arrive upon the release of the team's inactives in advance of Sunday's 4:25 PM ET kickoff. If Conner is cleared to play as expected, Jaylen Samuels would presumably revert to a complementary role in the Pittsburgh offense.

Returns to full practice

Conner (ankle) practiced fully Wednesday, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner, who has missed the Steelers' last three games with an ankle sprain, thus appears to be trending toward active status for Sunday's regular-season finale against the Bengals, barring any setbacks. For his part, however, coach Mike Tomlin was rather restrained in his expectations for Conner, despite the full practice. "I thought his participation was on the upswing at the end of last week with his ankle," Tomlin said. "We'll be watching him closely to see if he can be a positive…read more

Uncertain for Week 17

Coach Mike Tomlin indicated Tuesday that he views Conner (ankle) as questionable for the Steelers' Week 17 game against the Bengals, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

Analysis: Tomlin noted that Conner's availability for the regular-season finale will hinge on the running back's participation in practices Wednesday through Friday. Conner was unable to log any on-field activity in practice at any point before Sunday's 31-28 loss to the Saints, resulting in him missing a third straight contest. If Conner fails to demonstrate meaningful progress within the next few days, Jaylen Samuels would again be positioned to lead the Pittsburgh backfield for another game.

Ruled out this week

Conner has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Saints, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner didn't practice all week and will be sidelined for the third consecutive game. That paves the way for Jaylen Samuels to act as the lead option out of the Pittsburgh backfield, with Stevan Ridley on hand in a supporting role.

Misses another practice

Conner (ankle) did not practice Thursday.

Analysis: Conner has missed the Steelers' last two games and back-to-back missed practices this week hint at another absence Sunday against the Saints. If he ends up sitting out that contest, rookie Jaylen Samuels would once again head the Pittsburgh backfield in Week 16, with Stevan Ridley on hand to work in a complementary role.

Unable to practice Wednesday

Conner (ankle) didn't practice Wednesday, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports. "I am trying. It's day-by-day," Conner said Wednesday, in reference to his outlook for Sunday's game against the Saints. "These high-ankle sprains are deceiving. I can walk around fine, not limping. When I am out there on the field, cutting and stuff, it's not ready yet."

Analysis: Conner has already missed two games with the high-ankle sprain and appears in serious jeopardy of missing another. If he's unable to go this weekend, the Steelers would once again turn to Jaylen Samuels -- who carried 19 times for 142 yards in the Week 15 win over the Patriots -- to head their backfield, with Stevan Ridley on hand in reserve.

Return date remains uncertain

Conner's (ankle) status remains in limbo for Sunday's game at New Orleans, Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports. "Hopefully, that sets the stage for a productive Wednesday, and we'll go from there," coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday after seeing Conner at the Steelers' facility.

Analysis: Prior to missing his second consecutive contest Week 15 against the Patriots, Conner managed a limited showing last Friday, initially earned a questionable tag, was downgraded to doubtful Saturday and eventually landed on the Steelers' list of inactives Sunday. He continues to rehab what has been termed a mid-to-high ankle sprain, so his listing on Wednesday's injury report will be interesting to note. In Conner's absence, the backfield has been running on all cylinders with Jaylen Samuels…read more

Inactive Sunday

Conner (ankle) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Patriots.

Analysis: This is the expected outcome after Conner was downgraded from questionable to doubtful Saturday. On the plus side, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports that the Steelers expect the running back to be available for Week 16's game against the Saints. Against the Patriots, however, Jaylen Samuels is once again in line to head Pittsburgh's backfield, with Stevan Ridley on hand to work in a complementary role against the team he played for from the 2011 season through 2014.

Expected back Week 16

Conner (ankle) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Patriots and isn't likely to play, but Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports the Steelers expect him back for the Week 16 game in New Orleans.

Analysis: The strong likelihood of Conner missing a second straight game this weekend is still a disappointing development for a team still clawing for the AFC North title, but it's encouraging news that his sprained ankle doesn't seem to threaten his availability for a potential postseason run. The Steelers will lean on Jaylen Samuels as their primary runner and pass catcher out of the backfield again versus New England, with Stevan Ridley likely to spell him mainly in short-yardage situations.

Downgraded to doubtful

The Steelers downgraded Conner (ankle) from questionable to doubtful for Sunday's game against the Patriots.

Analysis: The designation change doesn't come as a surprise after Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported less than an hour earlier that the Steelers weren't expecting Conner to be ready to go this weekend. Unless his sprained ankle feels better than anticipated Sunday, Conner will be sidelined for a second straight game, paving the way for Jaylen Samuels and Stevan Ridley to shoulder the team's backfield duties. It was Ridley who reached the end zone in the Week 14 loss to the Raiders, but Samuels…read more

Unlikely to play Sunday

Conner (ankle) is not expected to play against the Patriots on Sunday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: While Conner is listed as doubtful, it appears likely the second-year running back will miss his second straight game with a troublesome mid-to-high ankle injury. Rapoport seemed to suggest Conner would be good to go in Week 16, but at least in the immediate future Jaylen Samuels and Stevan Ridley will once again split time in the Pittsburgh backfield. Samuels handled almost the entire load in Week 14 against the Raiders, carrying the ball 11 times for 28 yards while adding seven catches for 64…read more

Questionable for Sunday

Conner (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Patriots, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Analysis: After being held out of practice Wednesday and Thursday, Conner returned as a limited participant to wrap up Week 15 preparations. The appearance indicates he has a chance to play through a mid-to-high ankle sprain this weekend after missing one game as a result of the injury. If he's unable to take on the Patriots' 15th-ranked run defense, Jaylen Samuels and Stevan Ridley are on hand to fuel the ground game.

Absent for another practice

Conner (ankle) isn't participating in Thursday's practice, Aditi Kinkhabwala of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Conner's lack of involvement in the Steelers' first two practices of Week 15 wouldn't seem to offer much optimism for his chances of returning to action Sunday against the Patriots. It's worth noting, however, that offensive coordinator Randy Fichtner told Kinkhabwala that Conner doesn't necessarily need to practice beforehand in order to play. Regardless, unless Conner unexpectedly returns to practice in a full capacity Friday, he appears destined to carry a designation into Sunday's game if…read more

No practice Wednesday

Conner (ankle) didn't practice Wednesday, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports. "James Conner, with his ankle injury, had a really impressive week last week," Tomlin noted after the session. "We'll see what this week holds, and his availability [for Sunday's game against the Patriots] will be based on his health and then his preparedness. We'll see about his availability throughout the course of the week and let his availability and then the quality of that be our guide."

Analysis: Based on Tomlin's comments, it would seem that Conner, who sat out the Week 14 loss to the Raiders, has a shot to play in the team's crucial matchup with New England. Conner's continued absence from practice isn't the most encouraging sign, but he'll be viewed as day-to-day leading up to the weekend unless the Steelers suggest otherwise. If Conner ends up being limited at all of held out of action in Week 15, the Steelers would once again turn to the combination of Jaylen Samuels and Stevan…read more

Not ruled out for Week 15

Coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that Conner (ankle) hasn't been ruled out for the Week 15 game against the Patriots but will need to demonstrate progress in practices Wednesday through Friday to gain clearance to play, Chris Adamski of TribLive.com reports.

Analysis: Conner, who is believed to be dealing with something between a mid-to-high-ankle sprain, was sidelined for the first time all season over the past weekend in the Steelers' 24-21 loss to the Raiders. While the lead back was inactive, rookie Jaylen Samuels stepped in as the primary option out of the backfield, playing 80 percent of the offensive snaps and finishing with 28 yards on 11 carries and 64 yards on seven receptions. While Tomlin noted that Conner is coming off an encouraging week of…read more

May be out through Week 15

Conner, who is listed as out for Sunday's game against the Raiders, could also miss the Steelers' subsequent matchup with the Patriots in Week 15, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Though Conner was initially diagnosed with a leg contusion after exiting the Steelers' Week 13 loss to the Chargers, Rapoport relays that the running back is dealing with something closer to a high-ankle sprain, which likely explains why Pittsburgh ruled him out five days ahead of gameday. Conner is scheduled to receive a follow-up evaluation Monday, which should help the Steelers determine whether or not he has a realistic shot at making it back for Week 15. As for Sunday, the Steelers are…read more

Dealing with ankle issue

Coach Mike Tomlin relayed Tuesday that Conner has a sprained ankle that is more significant than originally thought, ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Previous reports indicated that the running back was dealing with a leg contusion, but that's been narrowed down to an ankle issue. Given how quickly the running back was ruled out this week, his absence could extend beyond Week 14. The Steelers will thus turn to Jaylen Samuels and Stevan Ridley to head their backfield Sunday against the Raiders in some form of time share, with Trey Edmunds in reserve.

Sidelined by ankle injury

An ankle sprain will cause Conner to miss Sunday's game against the Raiders, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: As a result, look for Jaylen Samuels and Stevan Ridley to head the Steelers' Week 14 backfield, with Trey Edmunds in reserve.

Forced from game with leg injury

Conner carried 15 times for 60 yards and two touchdowns on caught three of four targets for 14 yards during Sunday's 33-30 loss to the Chargers before exiting with a lower-leg contusion late in the fourth quarter.

Analysis: For the second straight game, Conner was mostly held in check, with 42 of his rushing yards coming on two carries. He was taken out of the game after getting rolled up on late in the contest, prompting the Steelers to turn to Jaylen Samuels at running back for the final few plays. Conner's injury appears minor according to early reports, but his status will bear monitoring in the coming days to discern if he'll be ready play Week 14 in Oakland.

Initially diagnosed with bruise

Head coach Mike Tomlin said Conner suffered a lower-leg contusion during Sunday's 33-30 loss to the Chargers, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Conner exited the game with only minutes remaining in the fourth quarter after racking up 74 total yards and two scores on 18 touches. While further medical testing may be necessary to pinpoint the exact nature of his injury, the reveal of just a bruise would be great news. However, Conner could miss time even with that diagnosis, and any absence wouldn't come at a worse time for most fantasy owners right before Conner was poised to take aim at a porous Raiders defense in Week 14. If Conner is…read more

Held in check by Broncos

Conner compiled 53 rushing yards on 13 attempts, adding four catches for 42 yards during Sunday's 24-17 loss to Denver.

Analysis: The runaway freight train that was Conner between Weeks 5 and 9 is no more, as he's managed a combined 143 rushing yards over his past three outings (compared to 118.5 rushing yards per game in that hot stretch). Prior to Sunday, recent inefficiency on the ground could be explained away by difficult matchups of late (Panthers and Jaguars, both top 12 in RB rushing yards allowed per game), but averaging under 4.1 yards per carry against Denver is disappointing. We're talking about the only…read more

Bottled up by Jaguars

Conner rushed nine times for 25 yards while adding six receptions for 24 yards on nine targets in Sunday's 20-16 win over the Jaguars.

Analysis: Expecting to get Le'Veon Bell back this season, the Steelers rode Conner hard prior to this contest. That approach was great for Conner's fantasy owners, but all that wear and tear might be catching up to Conner, who will continue to carry the load with Bell having failed to end his holdout by the deadline. Then again, the talented Jaguars defense completely stymied the Steelers through almost three quarters before blowing a 16-0 lead, so this dud could simply be attributed to a tough matchup…read more

Cleared for Week 11

Conner (concussion) doesn't carry an injury designation into Sunday's game against the Jaguars, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner was diagnosed with a concussion after departing early in the Steelers' Thursday night win over the Panthers in Week 10, but the lengthier turnaround between games provided enough time for him to clear the NFL's five-step protocol. The running back was a full participant in practices Wednesday through Friday, putting him on track to handle his usual three-down workload in Week 11. Any lingering concerns about what Conner's role might look like for the remainder of the season were erased…read more

Logs another full practice

Conner (concussion) logged another full practice Thursday.

Analysis: Back-to-back full practices set the stage for Conner to be a go Sunday against the Jaguars, though we'll continue to assign him an injury designation until it's confirmed that he has totally cleared the NFL's concussion protocol. Official word on that front could arrive Friday, upon the release of the Steelers' final Week 11 injury report.

Logs full practice

Conner (concussion) practiced fully Wednesday, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Per Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com, Conner felt good after Wednesday's practice, but until it's confirmed that the running back has passed through all the stages of the NFL's concussion protocol, he'll continue to carry an injury designation in Week 11. Once officially cleared -- which seems likely barring any unexpected setbacks -- Conner will head the Pittsburgh backfield Sunday against the Jaguars and for the games to follow now that Le'Veon Bell (contract dispute) is no longer…read more

Staying on as starting RB minus Bell

Le'Veon Bell (contract dispute) didn't sign his franchise tender by Tuesday's 4 p.m. ET deadline, ensuring Conner will remain the Steelers' starting running back going forward, Bob Labriola of the team's official site reports.

Analysis: With Bell ineligible to play for the rest of the season, the Steelers will continue onward with Conner is the unquestioned lead running back. Through nine games, Conner has received 78 percent of the designed runs and 14 percent of the targets, marks that closely mimic Bell's -- 81 and 19 percent, respectively -- from a season ago, per Mike Clay of ESPN.com. The huge workload has translated to five games of 100-plus yards from scrimmage and 11 total touchdowns, making Conner a weekly must-start…read more

Expected to practice Wednesday

Conner is still in the concussion protocol, but coach Mike Tomlin expects the running back to practice Wednesday, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

Analysis: Conner has three extra days to make it through the protocol after suffering a brain injury in last Thursday's 52-21 win over the Panthers. Even if he's a limited participant, Conner's presence on the practice field Wednesday would put him on track to avoid an absence Sunday at Jacksonville. With Le'Veon Bell not expected to join the team, Conner is positioned for a massive workload over the final seven weeks of the season.

Not expected to miss time with concussion

The Steelers are optimistic that Conner will clear the NFL's concussion protocol and suit up in the team's next game Nov. 18 against the Jaguars, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Conner sustained a head injury in Thursday's 52-21 win over the Panthers, during which he piled up 65 yards and a touchdown on 13 carries and reeled in his lone target for eight yards. The lengthier turnaround between games should prove beneficial for Conner in his recovery from the concussion, as he'll have nine days to pass the five-step protocol rather than the typical six. Assuming he endures no setbacks and gains clearance to play, Conner should reprise his usual three-down duties for the…read more

In concussion protocol

Coach Mike Tomlin confirmed after Thursday's 52-21 win over the Panthers that Conner is in the league's concussion protocol, NFL.com reports.

Analysis: Conner finished the contest with 13 carries for 65 yards and a TD and one catch for eight yards. He'll now look to gain medical clearance in advance of the Steelers' Nov. 18 road tilt against the Jaguars. Meanwhile, per Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com, Steelers president Art Rooney II expects running back Le'Veon Bell (contract dispute) to report to the team next week. Assuming that's the case, the Steelers will have some decisions to make with regard to their backfield leading up to Week 11 action.…read more

Being evaluated for concussion

Conner is being evaluated for a concussion in the fourth quarter of Thursday's game against the Panthers and is questionable to return.

Analysis: Conner had a slow game on the ground by his recent standards before exiting, logging 65 yards and a touchdown on 13 carries while adding one reception for eight yards. The rushing numbers still equate to five yards per carry, but it looks as if Conner's four-game 100-yard rushing streak will come to an end in Week 10. With Thursday's contest well out of hand in the fourth quarter, it is unlikely the Steelers will bring the second-year rusher back onto the field, even if he is cleared. Jaylen…read more

Fourth straight game over 100 rushing yards

Conner rushed 24 times for 107 yards while adding seven catches for 56 yards and a touchdown on nine targets in Sunday's 23-16 win over Baltimore.

Analysis: Conner got into the end zone on a seven-yard reception in the first quarter and ended up topping 100 yards on the ground for the fourth consecutive game. With Le'Veon Bell still yet to report due to a contract dispute, the Steelers have had no problem giving Conner all the work he can handle, much to the delight of his fantasy owners. Pittsburgh will be right back in action Thursday, so it's unlikely Bell reports by the time the Panthers come to town in Week 10.

Poised to lead backfield in Week 9

Conner is once again expected to serve as Pittsburgh's lead back Sunday in Baltimore after Le'Veon Bell (contract dispute) failed to report to the team Wednesday for its first practice of Week 9, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: There was some thought that Bell might rejoin the Steelers this week after he stayed put in Pittsburgh following Tuesday's trade deadline, but it appears the 26-year-old's prolonged holdout will extend through at least one more game. Given that Bell can still become a free agent this offseason if he reports to the team prior to Week 11, there's a good chance he'll also remain away from the team for its Thursday night game against the Panthers in Week 10. Conner has taken full advantage of…read more

Two more touchdowns in blowout win

Conner ran for 146 yards and two touchdowns on 24 carries and caught three of his six targets for 66 yards during Sunday's 33-18 win over Cleveland. He also fumbled once, but it was recovered.

Analysis: Conner, whose fumble in Week 1 contributed to Cleveland's comeback that ended in a 21-21 tie, fumbled again on Pittsburgh's third possession of the game, but Roosevelt Nix recovered. After a slow first half, Conner exploded for the bulk of his yards and the two scores in the final two quarters. Conner faces a strong Baltimore defense Week 9 that held him to 44 total yards from scrimmage -- including 19 yards on nine carries -- in a Week 4 loss.

Set to retain lead role in Week 8

Conner is expected to remain the Steelers' lead back Sunday against the Bengals with Le'Veon Bell (contract dispute) not planning to report to the team this week, Jim Trotter of NFL.com reports.

Analysis: There had previously been whispers that Bell was planning on rejoining the team during its Week 7 bye, but that never came to pass. Bell remained absent from the squad when it reconvened Monday and looks like he could continue his holdout through the Oct. 30 trade deadline, if not longer. However long Bell is out of the Steelers' backfield mix, Conner should make for a strong lineup option across all leagues, as he entered the bye week ranked among the NFL's top five in both rushing yards (453)…read more

Delivers big game before Bell's return

Conner rushed 19 times for 111 yards and two touchdowns while catching four of seven targets for 18 yards in Sunday's 28-21 win over the Bengals.

Analysis: Conner scored a pair of one-yard touchdowns in the second quarter. He came less than a yard short of the goal line on a 25-yard run in the third and was subsequently stuffed on two attempts, so Pittsburgh was forced to settle for a field goal. With Le'Veon Bell due back during Pittsburgh's Week 7 bye, questions loom over Conner's workload moving forward. Chances are his role will be limited if Bell's healthy.

Gets support from Big Ben

Steelers quarterback Ben Roehtlisberger said Tuesday that he hopes that Conner retains a role on offense once Le'Veon Bell (contract dispute) reports to the team, Sean Gentile of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports. "What I would say is, I don't think we put [Conner] on the shelf by any means," Roethlisberger said. "And I will push for James to get as much run as we can because we've seen some great things from him in all phases of football. He's picking up blitzes, he's catching the ball, he's running hard and making plays and playing with a passion, so we need to keep using that."

Analysis: While Roethlisberger noted that Bell -- who is expected to report to the Steelers during their Week 7 bye -- is "one of the best in the business," the franchise signal-caller acknowledged that Conner has played too well through the first five games to be phased out entirely. In addition to the reasons Roethlisberger laid out for Conner's value in real-life terms, the second-year player has been a top-flight fantasy producer while dominating the backfield snaps for Pittsburgh, amassing 342…read more

Eclipses century mark, scores twice in win

Conner rushed 21 times for 110 yards and two touchdowns and brought in all four of his targets for 75 yards in the Steelers' 41-17 win over the Falcons on Sunday. He also fumbled once but it went out of bounds.

Analysis: As expected, Conner thrived through the air against a Falcons defense that came in having allowed the most receptions to running backs in the NFL. However, he also ripped off 5.2 yards per tote on the ground, leading to his best rushing yardage haul since the opener versus the Browns. Conner now has at least three catches in each of the first five games, and Sunday's receiving yardage total served as a season high. While Le'Veon Bell will reportedly return to the team during the Week 7 bye,…read more

Could get more carries

Steelers offensive coordinator Randy Fichtner said Thursday that he's eager to get Conner more involved in the ground game, Chris Adamski of TribLive.com reports. "I probably just need to do a better job heating him up," Fichtner said, referring to giving Conner more carries. "It's just like quarterbacks, too. You get into a rhythm. And all good running backs, they need that rhythm."

Analysis: After handling 31 carries for 135 yards and two touchdowns in the Week 1 tie with the Browns, Conner has been limited to a combined 32 totes over the past three games, which have yielded just 97 yards (3.0 per carry) and one score. Game flow contributed to Conner's single-digit carry loads in Weeks 2 and 4, but Sunday's home game against Atlanta could prove more favorable for the 23-year-old. Conner and the Steelers, who enter the weekend as a slight favorite in the contest, will take aim at a…read more

Will start next two games

Conner will remain the Steelers' starting running back for at least two more games, at which point Le'Veon Bell (contract) dispute) is expected to report to the team, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Bell has stayed away from the Steelers as his franchise tag remains unsigned, but there appears to be a deadline for the running back to return to the team's facility. Once he does, there's little doubt the ground game will revolve around Bell, who has typically left little more than scraps for his backups. For the next two games, though, Conner will lead the backfield, which has so far equated to 81 touches through four contests.

Boxed in by Baltimore

Conner rushed nine times for 19 yards during Sunday's 26-14 loss to the Ravens. He also secured three of seven targets for 25 yards with one two-point conversion.

Analysis: The Steelers fell behind early and weren't able to commit to the run in the first half. The Baltimore defense then shut out the Pittsburgh offense in the second half, and Conner ultimately was unable to do much with his limited workload. While his inefficiency (3.03 YPC since Week 1) is becoming a concern, the running back's fantasy stock is more significantly dinged by the fact that Conner -- unlike Le'Veon Bell (contract dispute) -- doesn't appear to have the receiving chops to be productive…read more

Totals 95 yards from scrimmage in win

Conner ran for 61 yards on 15 carries and caught five of six targets for 34 yards in Monday's 30-27 win over the Buccaneers.

Analysis: The second-year running back struggled get much of anything going early but finished with two big fourth-quarter runs of 27 and 17 yards to help extend drives and preserve the win. He won't find it any easier Week 4 against the Ravens, who are allowing just 84 rushing yards per game to opposing running backs this season.

Set for another busy week

Conner is slated to serve as Pittsburgh's lead back Week 3 against the Buccaneers, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Le'Veon Bell still hasn't reported to the Steelers or provided any hint about when he intends to do so, leaving Conner in line for another hefty snap count. Conner was limited to 17 yards on eight carries in Sunday's 42-37 loss to Kansas City, but he made up for it with a five catches for 48 yards and a touchdown on five targets. Conner enters Monday's game in Tampa Bay as the league leader in touches (49), with only Ezekiel Elliott boasting a higher snap share among running backs.

Makes highlight catch

Conner caught five of five targets for 48 yards and carried the ball eight times for 17 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 42-37 loss to Kansas City. He also scored a two-point conversion on the day.

Analysis: We knew he could run, now we know he can catch. Conner went up in the air and plucked a 22-yard pass down the sideline with one hand, a catch more expected of a star receiver than backup running back. Conner might be the second back on Steelers' fans minds, but he's certainly producing like a lead guy. Detractors will point to the fact that Conner's 65 yards on Sunday were fewer than all but one of Le'Veon Bell's outings last season, but if he's able to keep catching the ball like he did in…read more

On track for Week 2 start

Conner is in line to serve as the Steelers' lead back Week 2 against the Chiefs after Le'Veon Bell (contract dispute) failed to report to the team Wednesday ahead of its first practice of the week, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: In addition to his ongoing absence from the team, Bell was officially removed from the Steelers' unofficial depth chart Tuesday, suggesting Pittsburgh is preparing to proceed without the three-time Pro Bowler until further notice. That should pave the way for Conner to see another hefty three-down workload after he was on the field for all but seven of the Steelers' 84 offensive snaps in their season-opening 21-21 tie against the Browns, with the second-year player finishing with 192 total…read more

Stars in season opener

Conner carried 31 times for 135 yards and two touchdowns Sunday against the Browns. He also caught five of six targets for 57 yards and lost a fumble in the 21-21 tie.

Analysis: Conner handled a massive workload in the continued absence of Le'Veon Bell, leading all players in touches and scrimmage yards while averaging 5.3 yards per touch. He scored his first career NFL touchdown on a four-yard rush in the second quarter and found the end zone again from 22 yards out in the third. Conner had limited experience prior to this season, but he immediately appears ready to handle a workhorse role for as long as his teammate holds out. His status as a key cog in an elite…read more

Week 1 start on tap

Conner is in line to start at running back for the Steelers on Sunday in place of Le'Veon Bell, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.

Analysis: Jaylen Samuels and Stevan Ridley are also on hand and could factor in on Sunday, but for however long Bell is away from the team, Conner is on track to head the Pittsburgh backfield. With Sunday's weather in Cleveland likely to include rain and some wind, the stage could be set for Conner to be busy in his anticipated starting assignment.

Bell not with team

Conner's teammate Le'veon Bell (contract dispute) did not travel with the Steelers and is expected to miss Sunday's game in Cleveland, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: The opportunity for Conner in the opener is now clear. While Jaylen Samuels and Stevan Ridley might be sprinkled in for some plays, this is Conner's big chance and he should be on the field for much of the game while perhaps seeing close to the level of volume his unhappy teammate normally receives.

Getting closer to first career start

Conner is closer to starting Sunday's game at Cleveland with Le'Veon Bell (contract dispute) still away from the Steelers as of Friday, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Conner has 68 offensive snaps to his name as a professional, dashing for 144 yards on 32 carries (4.5 per) in his rookie season in 2017. However, the Steelers are confident he can get the job done as long as Bell isn't at the team facility. On the other hand, Conner still has to contend with rookie Jaylen Samuels and veteran Steven Ridley, which could impact his ceiling.

Trending toward Week 1 start

Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger noted Wednesday that he's preparing for the Steelers' Week 1 matchup with the Browns as though Conner will start at running back, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: That's a logical approach, given that Le'Veon Bell (contract dispute) has yet to sign his franchise tender with the team. With Bell still away from the team and just two practices remaining after Wednesday's session before the Steelers' season gets underway, the likelihood that Conner starts Week 1 continues to grow with each passing day. Expect Conner to handle the bulk of the backfield carries against the Browns, though he could cede some duties on passing downs to rookie Jaylen Samuels.

Could start in Week 1

Even if Le'Veon Bell reports to the Steelers on Wednesday and practices right away, Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette suggests that Conner could still get the start at running back for the team in Week 1.

Analysis: The plot will of course thicken if Bell re-joins the team for Wednesday's practice, but unlike last season when he reported to the team on a Monday and Conner (then a rookie) was a less-finished product, coach Mike Tomlin indicated that he's comfortable with handing Conner the ball Sunday against the Browns, with or without Bell in the mix. Look for added clarity regarding this situation Wednesday, but if Bell remains away from the team, even for one more day, then Conner's Week 1 streaming…read more

Still no Bell

Conner's teammate, Le'Veon Bell, has yet to sign his franchise tender, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.

Analysis: Conner logged the Steelers' first-team running back reps in training camp and the preseason and is thus in line to head the team's backfield until Bell returns to the mix. While this remains a fluid situation, Bell's absence from practice Monday puts Conner one step closer to either a start or a significant role Week 1.

Struggles against Titans

Conner ran for just 18 yards on 10 carries but caught six of six targets for 52 yards during Saturday's preseason game against the Titans.

Analysis: With Le'Veon Bell continuing his holdout, Conner assumed the starting running back role but struggled to get anything going on the ground. Despite the lackluster effort, he has likely shown enough to fend off fifth-round draft pick Jaylen Samuels as Bell's primary backup, and is a potential handcuff in deep drafts.

Rumbles against Packers

Conner (groin) took five carries for 57 yards and a touchdown in Thursday's 51-34 preseason loss to Green Bay.

Analysis: Conner looked sharp in the Steelers' preseason opener with four carries for 25 yards and one catch for nine yards, but he then missed some practice time with a groin injury over the weekend. The issue apparently wasn't too serious, as he got the start in Thursday's contest and ripped off gains of 24 and 26 yards on consecutive plays early in the first quarter. Conner seems to have a strong grasp on the No. 2 RB job, which has equated with regular first-team work during Le'Veon Bell's holdout.…read more

Sustains groin injury

Conner suffered a groin injury at Sunday's practice, Mark Kaboly of The Athletic Pittsburgh reports.

Analysis: While the Steelers await the return of Le'Veon Bell, Conner is acting as the top running back in the Steel City. Conner proved as much during Thursday's preseason game in Philadelphia, where he ran four times for 35 yards and hauled in a nine-yard reception. If Conner needs some time on the mend, rookie Jaylen Samuels is on hand to cover for him, with Fitzgerald Toussaint and Steven Ridley the next two in line.

Collects 34 yards against Philly

Conner rushed for 25 yards on four carries and added a nine-yard catch during Thursday's 31-14 win over the Eagles.

Analysis: Three of Conner's carries went for at least seven yards and the Steelers scored the contest's first touchdown by throwing deep to JuJu Smith-Schuster after pounding Conner into the line on three consecutive plays. The local product has looked strong this camp, and that continued into Thursday. It's just hard to get too excited with Le'Veon Bell looming.

Conner (knee) has been practicing at OTAs, ESPN.com's Jeremy Fowler reports.

Analysis: A third-round pick last year, Conner was limited to 32 carries for 144 yards while rarely seeing the field behind Le'Veon Bell, with Conner's season coming to an end Week 15 when he suffered an MCL injury. Seemingly back at full strength, Conner figures to be in the mix for first-team reps throughout OTAs and June minicamp, as Bell isn't expected to join the team until the end of the preseason unless he signs a contract extension. The second-year back is competing with Jaylen Samuels,…read more

Conner (knee) recently said via SoundCloud that he has resumed sprinting on a treadmill.

Analysis: Conner spent the final three games of the 2017 season on injured reserve due to a damaged MCL in his right knee. It isn't clear if he'll be operating under any physical limitations when offseason workouts commence in April, but he at least seems to be on track to be available in some capacity.

The Steelers placed Conner (knee) on injured reserve Tuesday, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner underwent surgery earlier in the day to repair the MCL in his right knee, spelling an end to the 22-year-old's rookie campaign. Though he didn't see many snaps behind bell cow Le'Veon Bell this season, Conner generally impressed in spot duty, logging 32 carries for 144 yards (4.5 average) across 14 games. The Steelers signed veteran Stevan Ridley to join Fitzgerald Toussaint in a depth role behind Bell. Conner is expected to be back to full strength for the start of the 2018 season.

Conner will undergo knee surgery Tuesday and will be placed on injured reserve, Aditi Kinkhabwala of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Conner played a career-high nine snaps in Sunday's loss to the Patriots, but he also suffered a knee injury in the contest, a setback that will cut short his rookie season. Fellow running back Le'Veon Bell has taken 92 percent of the snaps in the Steelers' backfield this season, so the loss of Conner won't have a major effect on the offense. Fitzgerald Toussaint seems likely to take over as Pittsburgh's No. 2 back, and head coach Mike Tomlin indicated the team would add another running back to…read more

Conner needs knee surgery and likely will miss at least a few weeks, Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Conner doesn't get much playing time behind Le'Veon Bell, sitting on 32 carries for 144 yards (without any receptions) in 14 games this season. Fitzgerald Toussaint will take over as Bell's backup for the rest of the regular season and possibly into the playoffs.

Conner left Sunday's game against the Patriots in the fourth quarter with a knee injury, Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: Conner handled a minuscule role behind Le'Veon Bell prior to his early exit, taking three carries for 13 yards. Fitzgerald Toussaint will finish out the contest as Bell's backup.

Conner ran for six yards on two carries during Sunday's 39-38 win over Baltimore.

Analysis: Conner maintains his No. 2 role in Pittsburgh's offense, but the disparity is considerable. Le'Veon Bell racked up 80 snaps to Conner's seven on Sunday. As a consequence, the rookie isn't as valued as most No. 2 backs in the league. He's tallied five touches just once this season and hasn't topped 20 total yards in a game since Week 4.

Conner ran for 12 yards on three carries in Pittsburgh's 23-20 win over Cincinnati on Monday.

Analysis: The Steelers continue to use Conner sparingly, and with good reason, as Le'Veon Bell is on pace to rush for over 1,400 yards so long as he remains healthy. Conner has rushed for 125 yards on 27 carries this season, for a solid 4.6 average, including a high of 26 yards earlier this season against Baltimore, who he'll face in Week 14.

Conner has avoided the Steelers' injury report since limping off the field Sunday in Indianapolis.

Analysis: Conner has received between one and eight offensive snaps in eight of nine games this season, but on his one such rep Sunday, he had a visible limp after a 12-yard gain. The lack of a designation in advance of Thursday's game against the Titans implies he'll be available as Le'Veon Bell's direct backup, per usual.