CONNER DESERVES ROLE
ALONGSIDE BELL
Second-year running back James Conner deserves a significant
role in the Pittsburgh Steelers' offense even when Le'Veon Bell returns from
his holdout, according to quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.
Bell, a two-time first-team All-Pro, is expected to return for Week 8's game
against the Cleveland Browns after holding out since he received the franchise
tag in March for the second consecutive year. By not signing the $14.54 million
tender, Bell loses approximately $853,000 in salary for each week he misses.
Conner, a 2017 third-round pick, has 84 carries for 342 yards (4.1 average) and
five scores, along with 22 grabs for 239 yards as a receiver.
Roethlisberger had similar comments during a radio appearance with 93.7 The Fan
in Pittsburgh on Tuesday, saying the team shouldn't put Conner "on the
shelf by any means" once Bell is back, and adding he would push for Conner
to play.
Bell had at least 19 touches in 14 games last season, and he topped 25 touches
on nine occasions. Conner has three games this season with at least 20 touches,
including 25 on Sunday and 36 in Week 1.
Conner had 110 rushing yards in last Sunday's win over the Atlanta Falcons for
his second 100-yard outing of the season.
The Steelers have a bye in Week 7, so Sunday's game at the Cincinnati Bengals
will likely be the last before Bell returns.
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