4 reasons the Steelers shouldn’t even consider re-signing RB James Conner
By Tommy Jaggi
James Conner is just an average NFL running back
Despite the Pro Bowl honor he received in 2018, it’s hard to make the case for Conner being a ‘special’ running back in the NFL. Unlike players like Christian McCaffrey, Ezekiel Elliott, or Alvin Kamara, he doesn’t have a trait that sets him apart from any other running back in the league.
Conner is average between the tackles with average top-end speed and average ability to make defenders miss (whether by running them over or evading them in the open field). As evidence, Conner’s efficiency numbers back this up. His 4.5 career yards per carry and 72.1 average career grade, via Pro Football Focus, are proof of this.
While these are still solid numbers, they hardly merit giving a big extension to him. Conner’s production on the field and overall rushing efficiency are easily replaceable, and his role can be just as easily filled by a younger, cheaper, and (likely) healthier running back.
Conner is a solid back that can stay on the field for all three downs, but he doesn’t do anything special enough to warrant a second contract.