Steelers' James Conner Won't Play This Week Against Raiders

PITTSBURGH, PA - The news keeps getting worse for the suddenly reeling Steelers. After dropping two games in a row in which they were favored, the team will be without starting running back James Conner when it travels to Oakland this week to play the Raiders.

Conner suffered an ankle sprain in the waning moments of the Steelers’ 33-30 collapse against the Los Angeles Chargers at Heinz Field on Sunday. Coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that the injury is more serious than initially thought.

Conner became the starter when Le’Veon Bell decided not to sign his franchise tag contract and sit out the 2019 season. His loss is a huge blow to the Steelers. He had gained 909 yards and rushed for 12 touchdowns, while amassing 52 receptions for 467 yards and a touchdown.

The Steelers’ options behind Conner are not ideal. They include rookie Jaylen Samuels, who has 12 carries for 37 yards this season; little-used veteran backup Stevan Ridley and former New Orleans Saint Trey Edmunds, who was activated Tuesday from the Steelers’ practice squad.

Photo: Getty Images.

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