Getting into the playoffs will be a tough task for the Pittsburgh Steelers. It may be even more daunting with running back Jams Conner's status still up in the air.
Conner has missed the last three games with an ankle injury. According to Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, he is unsure if he will be able to play in Week 17 versus the Cincinnati Bengals.
James Conner practiced today. He said afterward that his ankle is “getting better.” He was non-committal about playing against the Bengals
It is encouraging to see that Conner is at least making progress in his recovery. The ankle injury has sidelined him over the last three weeks. The fact that he is able to practice consistently raises hope about a potential return. Unfortunately, it may be too little too late for him and the Steelers.
Pittsburgh suffered a crucial loss at the hands of the New Orleans Saints on Sunday. As a result, they are no longer in control of their own playoff destiny. Not only will they need to defeat the Bengals, but they must hope that the Cleveland Browns can pull out a win over the Baltimore Ravens. Although it is not the most improbable odds, the Steelers would much rather not have to rely on help from the Browns.
Regardless, it appears Pittsburgh will once again rely heavily on running back Jaylen Samuels as the lead back. Samuels has played well in his new role as the workhorse on offense. Meanwhile, running back Stevan Ridley has filled in as a complementary back. It is safe to assume that the Steelers will wait to see their playoff fate before deciding on Conner's return.
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