By Jessica Costello
SteelerNation.com
It's still unclear when Pittsburgh Steelers' running back, James Conner will make an appearance back with his teammates. The last time he played, he showed out for one of his best performances of the year against the Los Angeles Chargers, but as the clock keeps ticking, it's approaching just over a month that he hasn't been active in the 2019 regular season.
Pittsburgh originally listed Conner as doubtful the last go-around, but then seemed cautiously optimistic about his return. Then, playing in what seemed to be a quick turn around for the damage, he ended up aggravating his shoulder and making the injury even worse.
Conner commented on the injury before the game and about his temptations to play through the pain. But overall, he knows the very clear threat that can be to being able to play again this season.
“It’s getting better," Conner said, “but like I said this is a battle of time. I’m doing everything else possible like I said last week, and I’m going to continue to do that. The shoulder’s just something that takes time."
Within the last month, Conner has missed the last four out of the five games including most of a sixth. After trying to suffer through the pain during the first matchup against the Cleveland Browns, he was removed from the game completely at the end of the first quarter.
“If it was unstable and I went out there and the joint kept moving around, then I would need surgery. I’m not going to do that. I’m not going to come back until I’m sure I won’t need surgery on my shoulder," Conner said.
While we play the waiting game right now for the return of Conner, the Steelers offense will probably seem to struggle without their stars, including wide receiver, JuJu Smith-Schuster. Conner plans to return when the shoulder injury is healed and there is no risk for surgery, as he is obviously trying to avoid that completely.
“Everybody has their roles," he said. “My role is to get healthy."
So far this season, Conner's numbers aren't anywhere near what they would be if he hadn't missed six games. He's recorded 102 rushing attempts for 390 yards - averaging 3.8 yards per carry including four rushing touchdowns.
He has also recorded 30 receptions for 242 yards with an additional two more touchdowns.
What do you think Steeler Nation? Do you foresee Conner back anytime soon? Let us know what you think in the comments section below!
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