James Conner

Talking to reporters about his role in 2019, Steelers RB James Conner said that he expects backfield touches to be "spread out pretty evenly.”

Fantasy Impact

The Steelers have alluded to this, and given Conner's struggles late in 2018 and the presence of rookie Benny Snell as well as the returning Jaylen Samuels it wouldn't be surprising to see a more even split in 2019. That would negatively impact the value of all of the runners in the Steelers' backfield, especially on a team that has been one of the few bell-cow offenses in the league. Conner's stock could be negatively impacted the most as he's currently sitting at the RB8 in our expert consensus rankings.

Pittsburgh Steelers running back James Conner picked up 64 yards on 14 carries while adding another 30 yards on three receptions in his team's 16-13 win over the Bengals in Week 17.

Fantasy Impact

Conner returned from a three-game absence to lead the Pittsburgh backfield. The second-year runner finishes the 2018 season with 973 rushing yards, 55 receptions, 497 receiving yards, and 13 total touchdowns. Provide he enters 2019 as the team's starter, he will be a solid RB1 in fantasy leagues.

Steelers beat writer Gerry Dulac is reporting RB James Conner (ankle) is officially active for Week 17.

Fantasy Impact

Conner tested out his ankle during pregame and was deemed good to go. He will play in a dream matchup against the Bengals. With no reported limitations, Conner should receive a full workload for Week 17.

ESPN's Adam Schefter is reporting Steelers RB James Conner (ankle) is a game-time decision for Week 17.

Fantasy Impact

Conner practiced all week and is reportedly "determined" to play in Sunday's matchup with the Bengals following his three-game absence with a high ankle sprain. Still, despite the magnitude of this game, the Steelers want to be cautious with the star rusher and test his ankle out in pre game prior to making the ultimate determination on his playing status. Hanging a 19/111/2 stat line the last time these two teams met earlier in the regular season -- he also added another 18 yards on four receptions to his rushing totals -- Conner will be in the RB1 tier assuming he will return to a full workload.

James Conner is listed as questionable to play Week 17 due to his ankle injury.

Fantasy Impact

Unlike the last few weeks, Conner is expected to play despite the questionable tag. He's been able to return to practice fully this week, and he should be back against the Bengals as the Steelers attempt to move on to the postseason. With Conner returning, Jaylen Samuels will move back into his pass-catching, change-of-pace role.