Pittsburgh Steelers running back James Conner left last week’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers with what the team initially thought was a minor ankle bruise, but it turns out he could be looking at a multi-week absence.
Conner has been ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Raiders in Oakland, and Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports that the Steelers are committed to playing it safe with him as he deals with an ankle sprain. That could mean Conner will have to sit out next Sunday’s all-important showdown with the New England Patriots.
From @NFLGameDay: While #Chargers RB Melvin Gordon could be back on Thursday, there will be caution with #Steelers RB James Conner (ankle). He'll be evaluated Monday, but he could miss next week, as well. pic.twitter.com/JUGuZHbzyX
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 9, 2018
While Conner has made Steelers fans forget all about Le’Veon Bell, the team does not have a ton of depth behind him. Rookie fifth-round pick Jaylen Samuels, who has rushed for just 31 yards on 12 carries this season, is expected to get the bulk of the work with Conner out.
Conner’s injury looked like more than just a minor bruise with the way he limped off the field in Week 13, so it’s not all that surprising that he is missing time.
