James Conner took over the Pittsburgh Steelers backfield in 2018, but even after a Pro Bowl year, he’s looking to get better in 2019.
It wasn’t his job heading into the 2018 season, but once Le’Veon Bell decided not to show up, James Conner became one of the most dominant running backs in football. Only two years into the NFL, Conner to the field by storm, proving to his hometown that he’s just as good as the man who didn’t want to play in Pittsburgh anymore.
But like all athletes, Conner isn’t settling after one great season. The running back told the Steelers website that he’s looking to make an even bigger jump from his second year to his third.
"“I think my body is capable of doing the physical things. That is not an issue. The season is just long with the preseason and everything. The shape you have to be in, the condition, I made a big jump from Year 1 to Year 2, and I want to make a greater jump this year as far as being in shape. I will be ready for it.”"
He’s already showing progress with one of the NFL’s best players. Last year, people raved about how much more in shape Conner looked when he showed up for training camp, but looking at pictures of him and former Pitt teammate Aaron Donald, he appears to be in even better shape this offseason.
Conner has a chance to prove he was the right move for the Steelers, clearing any doubt of those still supporting Le’Veon Bell. Not everyone is sold on Pittsburgh moving on from Bell this offseason, but if both of them are on the field in 2019, Conner will get his first chance to show the world he was the right choice.
It’s his backfield now. No more talking about what-if Bell showed up. 2019 is the first time Pittsburgh will head into camp with Conner as their feature back. He sure looks like he’s ready to prove to the league that he’s one of the best. Working with Donald also helps.
It’s James Conner’s year. Steeler Nation loves his work ethic and with the offseason drama Bell has caused the last two years, everyone will be rooting for No. 30 to break out even more in 2019.