Former Steeler James Conner Reflects on Resilient Career After Season-Ending Injury

Former Steeler James Conner Reflects on Resilient Career After Season-Ending Injury

Former Pittsburgh Steelers running back and current Arizona Cardinals star James Conner has been sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a knee injury. The Pitt alum first sustained the injury during Week 16 but pushed through to compete in Week 17. Unfortunately, an aggravation of the injury led the Cardinals to make the tough decision to shut him down for the rest of the campaign.

 

 

 

Conner’s 2024 season comes to an end with impressive numbers: 1,094 rushing yards, eight touchdowns, and an additional 414 receiving yards. Despite the setback, his performance this year reinforces his durability and productivity, even as injuries have marked parts of his career.

 

 

 

Longevity and Success in Arizona

In November, Conner inked a two-year, $19 million extension with the Cardinals, securing his place as a cornerstone of their offense. Since joining Arizona in 2021, Conner has become a reliable workhorse, highlighted by a Pro Bowl appearance. Over his career, he has surpassed 5,000 rushing yards and accumulated over 8,000 yards from scrimmage, a testament to his consistency and versatility.

 

 

 

 

 

From Pittsburgh to Arizona: A Story of Resilience

Conner’s journey to NFL stardom began when the Steelers selected him in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft out of the University of Pittsburgh. He stepped into the starting role after All-Pro running back Le’Veon Bell held out and eventually departed for the New York Jets. Conner’s performance in Pittsburgh earned him accolades, but recurring injuries led the team to move on and draft Najee Harris.

 

 

 

 

Arizona offered Conner a fresh start, and he’s made the most of it. Unlike his earlier years in Pittsburgh, Conner has managed to stay relatively healthy with the Cardinals, showcasing his ability to handle a heavy workload.

 

 

 

 

Looking Ahead

Despite this season-ending injury, Conner remains a vital part of Arizona’s plans. His combination of rushing and receiving skills makes him a dual threat in the backfield, and his leadership is invaluable to a young Cardinals team. “It’s next man up,” as the saying goes, but Conner’s absence will undoubtedly be felt.

 

 

 

 

For now, Conner can look back on another strong season, confident in his ability to bounce back and continue building his remarkable career.