James Conner

Why haven't the Steelers run the ball more? Well, part of it is due to the fact that their offensive line just isn't getting much push. Conner and the Steelers backs have averaged just 1.12 yards before contact, which ranks third-lowest mark in the NFL. That's not something they're used to, but the passing game has been working, so there's not much of a reason to force the issue with Conner. So, if the Steelers will throw the ball a lot, can we rely on Conner to catch quite a few passes? Not really. Running backs may be asked to stay in and block against Washington's fierce pass-rush, which could be the reason for them seeing just 15.8 percent of the targets against them (sixth-fewest in NFL). Running backs haven't seen much volume against Washington in general, as running backs have combined to average 25.7 touches per game. Knowing Conner concedes some work to the other backs, combined with the fact that he'd be coming off COVID, we could see them split the workload a bit more. All in all, running backs have faced the second-least amount of weighted volume against Washington, behind only the Steelers themselves. With just one running back topping 86 rushing yards against them all year, it's not an obvious great spot for Conner to get back on track, which makes him a low-end RB2/high-end RB3 this week. If he had to miss another week, Benny Snell would jump right into his spot in the rankings.

James Conner tests positive for COVID-19

Steelers RB James Conner has tested positive for COVID-19. He’ll have a second test to confirm the results, but he is likely out for the game vs. the Ravens on Tuesday night, if it even happens at all.

Fantasy Impact

Contact tracing is underway with the Steelers after Conner’s positive test. At this rate, it’s tough to see the Steelers vs. Ravens game taking place on Tuesday night in Week 12. Stay tuned for more details as it relates to COVID-19 cases for both the Steelers and Ravens. Conner’s likely backup would be Benny Snell with some rookie Anthony McFarland Jr. sprinkled in.