Pittsburgh Steelers: James Conner continues to impress during camp

Le’Veon Bell isn’t reporting to Pittsburgh Steelers training camp, but the noise around the running back position isn’t as quiet as you’d expect.

James Conner has impressed all offseason. From OTAs to training camp, the second-year back hasn’t missed a beat out of the backfield. As the starting running back of the offseason, Conner has showed up leaner and is taking full advantage of his opportunity.

Last year, Conner wasn’t prepared for an NFL offseason as starter. As fun as it was to see the Pitt native continue his narrative in the city that loves him, everyone was aware he wasn’t going to beat out Le’Veon Bell for the starting job.

Even as Bell stayed away from offseason workouts and training camp, Conner was looked to use the time as more of a learning experience. He would get the reps in the offseason so he could prepare for a larger role down the road.

After a less than impressive rookie campaign that ended in a season-ending injury, Conner’s expectations became even less exciting. Coming back this summer, though, he’s leaner, dropping close to 10 pounds, quicker and taking on the starting role as if he’s competing for it. Which, maybe he is.

Watching him at training camp, you see a future as an NFL back. Something you didn’t in his first season. He’s gone from reliable five yard run to breakout tackles and taking holes to the end zone. Something his offensive line is noticing.

Maurkice Pouncey has had high praise of his second-year back, telling media at training camp that he’s better in a number of places.

"“He just looks he’s in great shape,” Pouncey said. “He’s blocking really well in the passing game. Hopefully he keeps building on that.”"

Sometimes it takes a year to adjust to the NFL. It’s a different game from college, and even the best of the best need time to adapt to the changing speed and intensity that comes with professional football.

"“You’re just more used to it,” Pouncey said about second-year players. “When you first come in, you don’t know how a lot of things are gonna happen. Expectations are (high)for him, and he’s handled it really well.”"

Conner’s role in Pittsburgh once Bell returns is unknown. But the team would love to use both of their running backs in 2018. With Bell’s future in Pittsburgh possibly coming to an end next offseason, this could be the year they start to work Conner into a larger role throughout the season.