The Pittsburgh Steelers steamrolled past the Carolina Panthers Thursday night at home, taking down Cam Newton and company in a comprehensive 52-21 win. It wasn’t all good news for the Steelers, though, as they also saw breakout star James Conner make multiple trips to the medical tent due to a possible concussion.

The Steelers labeled Conner questionable early in the final period, but the team also had good reason not to send the former Pittsburgh Panthers star back into the field. They were merely trying to protect their huge lead at the time of their announcement of Conner’s status, as echoed by Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network.

#Steelers RB James Conner was taken to the locker room to be evaluated for a possible concussion. He’s listed as questionable, but given the score, I’d imagine he’s done for the night.

Related NewsArticle continues below
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin looks on in the second quarter against the Baltimore Ravens in an AFC wild card game at M&T Bank Stadium.
Pittsburgh Steelers 3 best trade targets to round out 2025 roster
Mason Rudolph, Steelers
Full Steelers game-by-game predictions after 2025 NFL schedule release
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin visits the field during Senior Bowl practice for the American team at Hancock Whitney Stadium.
Why Ryan Clark thinks Steelers’ Mike Tomlin should coach somewhere else

Before his exit from the game, Conner had compiled 65 rushing yards and a touchdown – his 10th of the season — on 13 carries. He also had eight receiving yards on a reception.

It’s unclear what the definite status of Conner is as of this writing, but his injury will add to the discussions of Le’Veon Bell’s potential return. Bell has until next Tuesday (Nov. 13) to sign the Steelers’ franchise-tag offer, but has never shown any palpable intent to end his holdout.

The Steelers will face the Jacksonville Jaguars on the road in Week 11.