James Conner has forced 54 missed tackles this season, the most in the NFL.

Punches in fifth touchdown

Conner rushed 20 times for 53 yards and a touchdown while catching two of three targets for 16 yards in Sunday's 28-27 win over the Dolphins.

Analysis: Conner didn't have a strong game in terms of efficiency, but the tailback punched in his fifth rushing touchdown of the season. The 6-foot-1 rusher commanded 22 of Arizona's 23 touches doled out to running backs Sunday. With such a strong hold on the Cardinals' lead-back role, Conner makes for a strong play against the Bears (112.0 yards/game allowed to opposing RBs) next Sunday.

Leading yardage getter Monday

Conner rushed 19 times for 101 yards and brought in two of four targets for 51 receiving yards in Monday's 17-15 win over the Chargers.

Analysis: Conner's downhill running style set the tempo for the Cardinals in a game that featured just 32 points. The bruising back didn't have a carry longer than 14 yards against the Chargers, but he simply took chunks out of the defense consistently throughout the contest. This was Conner's third game reaching the century mark in rushing yards this season, and it also marked a new high in yards from scrimmage for the veteran running back. With Week 6's dud against Green Bay in the rear-view mirror,…read more

Disappointing numbers in loss

Conner rushed seven times for 24 yards and brought in four of five targets for 22 yards in the Cardinals' 34-13 loss to the Packers on Sunday.

Analysis: Conner's numbers were certainly a disappointment given some of his other performances this season, although a game script that saw Arizona already down 24-10 at the half didn't help his cause. Conner's backfield mates Trey Benson and Emari Demercado also combined for nine carries, and the latter added five receptions on seven targets, so the veteran back had to cede more touches than usual. Conner will aim to bounce back in a Week 7 home Monday night battle against the Chargers on Oct. 21.

Nets 100 yards in win

Conner rushed 19 times for 86 yards and a caught two of three targets for 14 yards in Sunday's 24-23 win over San Francisco.

Analysis: Conner didn't hit pay dirt in Sunday's upset victory, but he managed to reach 100 combined yards from scrimmage for the third time this season. The bruising back continues to dominate the backfield touches in Arizona, with no other running back receiving a carry behind the 233-pound starter. Conner remains a strong fantasy play ahead of a Week 6 road matchup against Green Bay.

Bounces back with 104 yards, TD

Conner rushed 18 times for 104 yards and a touchdown while catching his only target for nine yards in Sunday's 42-14 loss to the Commanders.

Analysis: The Cardinals kept this game close long enough for Conner to get a robust workload on the ground, allowing the veteran running back to post his second 100-yard rushing performance of the season. Conner scored a six-yard rushing touchdown in the third quarter, marking his third rushing score through four games. He should continue to play a featured role in Arizona's offense against the 49ers in Week 5.

Shut down by Lions in loss

Conner rushed nine times for 17 yards and secured his only target for eight yards in the Cardinals' 20-13 loss to the Lions on Sunday.

Analysis: Conner posted his lowest rushing output of the season by far, as the Lions' vaunted run defense once again was up to par. Additionally, Conner couldn't make up for any shortcomings on the ground with his work through the air, as Kyler Murray primarily focused on his receivers and tight end Trey McBride (concussion) while trailing for a large swath of the contest. Conner should have a good opportunity to bounce back in Week 4, however, as a Commanders defense that's proven inconsistent thus far…read more

Rambles for 122 yards plus TD

Conner took 21 carries for 122 yards and a touchdown while collecting his lone target for two yards in Sunday's 41-10 win over the Rams.

Analysis: Everything was clicking on offense for the Cardinals against the Rams' undermatched defense in Sunday's blowout victory. Conner was a big part of that success by registering his first 100-yard game and second rushing touchdown in 2024. The bruising back will face a stiffer defensive test when the Cardinals host the Lions in Week 3, but there is virtually no scenario in which Conner's managers should consider other options in Week 3 starting lineups.

Runs in TD and two-point conversion

Conner rushed 16 times for 50 yards and a touchdown while catching three of four targets for 33 yards in Sunday's 34-28 loss to the Bills. He also ran in a two-point conversion.

Analysis: Arizona's first six offensive plays all went to Conner, and he racked up 41 scrimmage yards on six carries and two catches before Michael Wilson punctuated the possession with a five-yard touchdown catch. Conner scored a touchdown of his own in the second quarter from three yards out, then powered in a two-point conversion in the fourth quarter to bring Arizona within three after DeeJay Dallas scored the first kickoff-return touchdown in the history of the NFL's new dynamic kickoff rules. The…read more

Top RB on depth chart

Conner is listed as the Cardinals' No. 1 running back on the team's second unofficial depth chart of training camp, Jeremy Cluff of The Arizona Republic reports.

Analysis: This comes as no surprise considering Conner has started all 26 regular-season games in which he's been available for Arizona the last two seasons. He's also coming off a career-high 1,040 rushing yards while tallying 27 catches for 165 yards and nine total touchdowns in 13 appearances during the 2023 campaign. The team bolstered its backfield in the offseason with the selection of Trey Benson in the third round of the draft, and holdovers Emari Demercado and Michael Carter had brief moments of…read more

Leader of improved backfield

Rookie third-round pick Trey Benson is unlikely to take Conner's starting job but may eventually force a timeshare in the Cardinals' backfield, according to KC Joyner of The Athletic.

Analysis: Conner has missed multiple games in each of his seven NFL seasons, though never more than six in any one year, so any competition for touches could sort itself out. His 2023 included career highs for rushing yards (1,040) and yards per carry (5.0), with the downside being his fewest targets (33) and catches (27, 2.1 per game) since he was a barely-used rookie with Pittsburgh in 2017. The lack of receiving volume was partially a product of Emari Demercado getting playing time in passing…read more

Logs first 1,000-yard season

Conner finished with 27 carries for 150 yards and a touchdown Sunday, adding four receptions on as many targets for 54 yards in a 21-20 loss to Seattle.

Analysis: Conner nearly wore a hero's cape for the second week in a row after scoring another late touchdown to give the underdog Cardinals a shot at victory. Unlike the Eagles before them, the Seahawks were able to strike back on Sunday and spoil Conner's first 200-total-yard game of the campaign. The veteran workhorse was unconscious over the last quarter of the schedule (104/514/5) to produce the first 1,000-yard season of his career in just 13 games. Conner will enter the final year of a three-year…read more

Hero of upset victory

Conner took 26 carries for 128 yards and a touchdown while catching his only target for five yards and another touchdown in Sunday's 35-31 win over Philadelphia.

Analysis: Conner was the late-game hero of Sunday's upset win over the Eagles after he punched in a two-yard score with less than a minute left on the clock. It was the bruising tailback's second trip to the end zone in the second half after he caught a short touchdown pass from Kyler Murray in the third quarter. The red-hot Conner will carry a scoring streak of four games into the final game of the 2023 regular season.

Goes past 100 yards from scrimmage

Conner compiled 12 carries for 45 yards and five catches (on five targets) for 67 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 27-16 loss in Chicago.

Analysis: Sunday's outing marked Conner's first of the campaign with less than 4.0 yards per carry, but he made up for it with his performance as a receiver. Typically, he earns a few targets per game, but his five looks in Week 16 included a 16-yard catch-and-run for a TD and a personal game-high of 20 yards. Conner thus recorded 100-plus yards from scrimmage for the fourth time in 11 appearances this season. He'll aim to keep it up Sunday, Dec. 31 at Philadelphia.

Stays hot with another TD

Conner rushed 14 times for 86 yards and a touchdown while catching all three of his targets for three yards in Sunday's 45-29 loss to San Francisco.

Analysis: Conner followed up his best fantasy performance of the season against his old club last week with another strong outing in Week 15. It was especially impressive considering that the 49ers boast the third-stingiest run defense in the league. Conner has contributed 191 rushing yards and three touchdowns over his last two games afterproviding modest results in the three games prior following his return from IR. The bruising back is gaining momentum at a crucial point of the fantasy schedule,…read more

Two scores in return to Pittsburgh

Conner rushed the ball 25 times for 105 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 24-10 win over the Steelers.

Analysis: Conner topped 20 carries for the second time this season and for the first time since Week 2, likely in part due to his return to Pittsburgh and also because Emari Demercado (neck) was forced to exit the game. Regardless, he turned in a strong effort, highlighted by a long gain of 29 yards as well as touchdowns of one and nine yards. Conner had failed to top 73 rushing yards in three previous games since returning from a knee injury and will now head into a bye before facing a stout San…read more

Quiet day in loss

Conner rushed six times for 27 yards and brought in four of five targets for five yards in the Cardinals' 37-14 loss to the Rams on Sunday.

Analysis: Conner's day quickly fell victim to a game script that saw the Cardinals already down by 13 points at halftime. The veteran back also found running room to be mostly at a premium, considering 14 of his rushing yards came on one carry. Conner's yardage tally was a season-low total, and he'll aim to bounce back from the unproductive afternoon against his old Steelers squad on the road in Week 13.

Solid numbers in Week 11 loss

Conner rushed 14 times for 62 yards and brought in two of three targets for one yard in the Cardinals' 21-16 loss to the Texans on Sunday. He also recovered a fumble.

Analysis: Conner did well with the opportunities he had on the ground, posting his second solid performance since returning from a stint on injured reserve due to a knee injury. Conner also got reintegrated into the passing game, albeit modestly, after being shut out altogether in that department in his Week 10 return. Conner has now cleared the 60-yard mark on the ground in each of his first two games back, sending him into a Week 12 home matchup against the Rams with some momentum.

Returns as lead runner Sunday

Conner (knee) turned 16 carries into 73 yards during Sunday's 25-23 win versus the Falcons.

Analysis: After a four-game stint on injured reserve due to a knee injury, Conner made his first appearance since Week 5 and immediately took over the Cardinals backfield. His 16 rushes easily outpaced the three combined for reserve backs Keaontay Ingram and Tony Jones, and Conner also ceded just six carries to quarterback Kyler Murray, who saw his first game action in 11 months following last year's ACL tear. As was usually the case before his own injury, Conner wasn't looked at by his QB in the passing…read more

Back in action Sunday

Conner (knee) is active for Sunday's game versus the Falcons, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: After missing the minimum four games on injured reserve and getting activated Saturday, Conner will make his first appearance since Week 5, when he initially sustained a knee injury. He's a good bet to regain a majority share of the Cardinals backfield considering Emari Demercado (toe) is sidelined and Keaontay Ingram and Tony Jones are the only competitors for snaps. In his four healthy appearances this season, Conner took 70 touches for 348 yards from scrimmage and two rushing TDs.

Appears poised for return

Conner (knee) was activated off injured reserve Saturday and is expected to play Sunday against the Falcons, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Conner is still technically listed as questionable for Sunday's game, but by all accounts, he looks set to rejoin the lineup and reprise his duties as the Cardinals' lead ball carrier. With Emeri Demercardo (toe) out for a second straight game, the runway appears open for Conner to take on a full workload right from the jump. The Cardinals will be getting back not one, but two critical offensive pieces come Sunday, as Kyler Murray (knee) will also make his season debut after being activated…read more

Listed as questionable

Connor (knee) remained limited at practice Friday and is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Atlanta, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: The failure to progress to full participation perhaps leaves some doubt, while the Cardinals' decision to waive RB Tony Jones on Thursday hints at Conner making his return after missing the minimum of four games. He'll likely get a large workload if the Cards end up activating him from injured reserve before the 4 ET deadline Saturday, as rookie RB Emari Demercado (toe) has been ruled out for a second straight week. Keaontay Ingram is the only healthy running back on Arizona's roster as of…read more

Trending toward playing

Coach Jonathan Gannon told reporters Friday morning that Conner (knee) is "trending in the right direction for Sunday's game against Atlanta, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: The decision should be apparent by 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, the deadline for players in Sunday games to be activated from injured reserve. The Cardinals designated Conner for an IR return earlier this week and listed him as a limited participant in practice Wednesday and Thursday. Meanwhile, rookie RB Emari Demercado (toe) still hasn't practiced since Week 8 and thus appears in serious danger of missing a second straight game. The decision to waive RB Tony Jones on Thursday is another hint the…read more

Another limited showing

Conner (knee) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Conner now has managed back-to-back capped sessions since the Cardinals designated him for return from injured reserve Wednesday. He's missed the minimum four games that he must stay on IR, but the team doesn't have to make a decision regarding his activation from that list until Saturday afternoon. In the end, how Conner is listed on Friday's practice report could unveil whether he has a chance to suit up Sunday against the Falcons. Meanwhile, fellow running back Emari Demercado hasn't…read more

Officially limited Wednesday

Conner (knee) was a limited practice participant Wednesday, Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Analysis: The Cardinals designated Conner for return from injured reserve earlier Wednesday, and the extent of his first on-field work since hurting his knee Week 5 against the Bengals now is known. Conner's limitations in practice indicate that he still has some steps to take to put the health concern in the rear-view mirror, but he at least has two more chances this week to log a full session. Even if Conner doesn't practice fully Thursday or Friday, Arizona has until Saturday at 4 p.m. ET to activate…read more

Cleared to practice

The Cardinals announced Wednesday that Conner (knee) has been designated for return from injured reserve, Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Analysis: After missing the required four games since being placed on IR on Oct. 10, Conner will have his 21-day practice window opened when first eligible. Depending on how Conner fares over the next three days of practice, he'll have a chance at being activated ahead of Sunday's game versus the Falcons. Quarterback Kyler Murray (knee) also appears set to make his 2023 debut against Atlanta, meaning Arizona's offense could be close to full strength for the first time this season. The Cardinals have…read more

Could be back Week 10

Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon said Wednesday that Conner (knee) is "ready to go" and "excited to get back" on the field, Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Analysis: Though he didn't explicitly say that Conner will be cleared to return from injured reserve when first eligible to play Nov. 12 against the Falcons, Gannon's comments would at least seem to imply that the running back has a good chance at having his 21-day practice window opened during Week 10. While Conner misses a fourth consecutive game this Sunday in Cleveland, the Cardinals are expected to lean on rookie Emari Demercado (toe) as their lead option out of the backfield. Demercado has yet to…read more

Officially placed on IR

The Cardinals placed Conner (knee) on injured reserve Tuesday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Conner will miss at least four games due to a knee injury that he suffered this past Sunday against the Bengals. The nature of the issue isn't yet known, but as long as the veteran back is sidelined, the Cardinals' ground game will have to run though undrafted rookie Emari Demercado, Keaontay Ingram (neck), Tony Jones and potentially practice-squad members Corey Clement and Damien Williams. With Ingram still in recovery mode from a neck concern and looking very unimpressive prior to his injury…read more

Multi-week absence expected

Conner (knee) is expected to miss multiple weeks due to injury and is a candidate to be placed on IR, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: The running back was forced out of Sunday's loss to the Bengals in the second quarter, and if placed on IR he will have to miss at least the next four games. An extended absence on Conner's part would leave the Cardinals thin in the backfield, though the team did claim Tony Jones off waivers Monday. Undrafted rookie Emari Demercado gained 57 scrimmage yards and a touchdown on 11 touches after Conner left Sunday's game and is the likely starter in his place. Keaontay Ingram(neck) missed the…read more

May miss time due to knee injury

Coach Jonathan Gannon said Monday that Conner (knee) could be in line to miss "a little bit of time," Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Analysis: Conner exited Sunday's loss to the Bengals in the second quarter and was unable to return after being diagnosed with a knee injury, the nature and severity of which have yet to be clarified. The Cardinals seemingly signaled that Conner was a candidate to miss a game or games by claiming Tony Jones off waivers Monday, but Gannon also noted that the transaction "doesn't mean anything for James right now." With Arizona slated to play at the Rams this coming Sunday, the team will post its first…read more

Dealing with knee issue

Conner departed Sunday's game against the Bengals due to a knee injury.

Analysis: Conner visited the sideline tent early in the second quarter and eventually jogged to the locker room with a team trainer. At the time of his exit, he had turned six carries into 46 yards. Undrafted rookie Emari Demercado likely will be the Cardinals' lead runner with Corey Clement backing him up for as long as Conner is sidelined.

Season-low 11 attempts

Conner rushed 11 times for 52 yards while adding a four-yard reception off of two targets in Sunday's 35-16 loss to San Francisco.

Analysis: The 49ers took a quick 21-3 lead in this contest, forcing the Cardinals to abandon the running element from its gameplan in the second half. Conner performed well on an individual basis by averaging 4.7 yards on his 11 attempts, which actually dropped his season average to a healthy 5.1 yards per carry through four games. No other Cardinal running back received more than one carry in Sunday's loss, confirming Conner's firm grasp of the starting job as the team prepares to face Cincinnati next…read more

Logs full practice Thursday

Conner (back) practiced in full Thursday, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: The back issue that limited Conner during Wednesday's session clearly is a minor concern after he returned to all activity one day later. Meanwhile, Keaontay Ingram, one of the Cardinals' reserve running backs, showed up on Thursday's practice report as limited due to a neck injury. If Ingram isn't 100 percent or even out Sunday at San Francisco, Conner could handle a bit more work than usual out of Arizona's backfield.

Tending to back injury

Conner practiced in a limited capacity Wednesday due to a back injury, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: The oft-injured running back is dealing with his second health concern of the season after enduring some practice limitations during Week 2 prep due to a calf issue. His status will be one to watch closely as the week goes on, but so long as Conner is a full practice participant by Friday, he'll have a good chance at approaching Sunday's game in San Francisco without an injury designation. Through three games, Conner has easily paced the Cardinals backfield to the tune of 58 touches for 292…read more

Finds end zone in Week 3 win

Conner carried the ball 14 times for 98 yards and a touchdown and caught both his targets for 18 yards in Sunday's 28-16 win over the Cowboys.

Analysis: The former Steeler led a Cardinals rushing attack that piled up 222 yards and two scores, including Conner's own five-yard TD dash in the first quarter that kick-started the upset victory. The veteran back has produced 204 rushing yards and two touchdowns over the last two games, but that TD streak could come to an abrupt end in Week 4 against a tough 49ers defense.

Tops century mark in loss

Conner carried the ball 23 times for 106 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 31-28 loss to the Giants. He failed to catch his only target.

Analysis: The Cardinals held a 20-0 lead at halftime, aided by Conner's four-yard TD plunge in the first quarter, and the running back got a heavy workload after intermission as the team tried unsuccessfully to burn clock and secure the win. Keaontay Ingram was once again a non-factor as Conner's primary backup, and as long as the former Steeler stays healthy, he should dominate the backfield touches for Arizona. He faces a daunting matchup in Week 3, however, against a Cowboys defense that just held…read more

Cleared to play against Giants

Conner (calf) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Giants, Bob McManaman of The Arizona Republic reports.

Analysis: Conner was a limited practice participant Wednesday and Thursday, before upgrading to full at the end of the week and telling reporters he felt good after the practice. He played 83 percent of Arizona's snaps on offense last week en route to 19 touches for 70 yards, while backup Keaontay Ingram was seldom-used and finished with minus-four yards on five carries. Conner should be busy again this Sunday against New York.

Feeling good Friday

Conner (calf) said Friday that he's feeling good and suggested he's ready for Sunday's game against the Giants, Bo Brack of GoPHNX.com reports.

Analysis: It remains to be seen if Conner is listed as questionable or avoids an injury designation on the final report Friday afternoon. He was a limited practice participant Wednesday and Thursday after taking on 83 percent snap share and 19 touches for 70 yards in a 20-16 loss to Washington last week.

Limited again Thursday

Conner (calf) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday, Bo Brack of GoPHNX.com reports.

Analysis: During the portion of the session open to the media, Conner was wearing a sleeve on his calf but appeared to be moving around without issue, per Brack. Still, the Cardinals placed a cap on his on-field reps for a second day in a row, giving him just one more chance to log a full practice this week. Assuming he's able to suit up Sunday against the Giants, Conner will handle the bulk of the touches out of Arizona's backfield with Keaontay Ingram a distant second in the RB pecking order.

Tending to calf injury

Conner was limited at practice Wednesday due to a calf injury, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Conner easily paced the Cardinals backfield in the team's Week 1 loss at Washington, handling 84 percent (52 of 62) of the offensive snaps and turning 19 touches into 70 yards from scrimmage and no touchdowns. Meanwhile, backup Keaontay Ingram took on an 11 percent snap share en route to five carries for minus-4 yards. Conner is the clear-cut top back in Arizona, but his status now will be one to watch as the weekend approaches to get a sense of his availability for Sunday's game against the…read more

Solid effort in Week 1 loss

Conner carried the ball 14 times for 62 yards and caught all five of his targets for eight yards in Sunday's 20-16 loss to the Commanders.

Analysis: The veteran running back was the most productive player for Arizona on the afternoon, as Marquise Brown was the only other Cardinal to even top 50 scrimmage yards, but Conner's longest gain went for just 12 yards. With starting QB Joshua Dobbs still learning the playbook after being acquired in late August and his only competition for the job being 2023 fifth-round pick Clayton Tune, the team's whole offense figures to struggle, but a healthy Conner should be the most reliable part of it. He'll…read more

Light usage in preseason loss

Conner rushed twice for 15 yards in the Cardinals' 38-10 preseason loss to the Chiefs on Saturday night.

Analysis: Conner took the ball on Arizona's first play from scrimmage and recorded a six-yard carry, and after a nine-yard gain during the Cardinals' second drive, the veteran back's night was done. The 28-year-old once again lines up to helm the backfield in 2023, so it wouldn't be surprising to see him sit out next Saturday afternoon's road matchup against the Vikings.

Primed for bellcow usage?

Coach Jonathan Gannon said Thursday that he's "100 percent" comfortable using Conner as a bell-cow back, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: The Cardinals didn't add any draft picks or veteran free agents to their backfield this offseason, despite having one of the league's thinner depth charts at the position. Conner's ability to both run between the tackles and catch passes allows him to play in all situations without hurting the team, but he's missed multiple games in each of his six NFL seasons and has never been one to rip off long gains. Even accounting for his own shortcomings as well as those of the Arizona offense, Conner…read more

Looking good in offseason program

Head coach Jonathan Gannon said Tuesday that Conner (shin/knee) "looked good" at the start of the Cardinals' offseason program, Bo Brack of GoPHNX.com reports.

Analysis: After breaking out with 18 total touchdowns in his first season with Arizona in 2021, Conner fell back to eight scores in 13 games while battling ankle, knee, rib and shin injuries over the course of the most recent campaign. With more than three months to get past shin and knee issues that kept him out Week 18, Conner appears to be healthy as the team reported for the first workouts under Gannon, who took over for Kliff Kingsbury in February. As the Cardinals' roster currently stands, Conner…read more

Ruled out for season finale

Conner (shin/knee) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the 49ers, Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Analysis: The Cardinals are left with Corey Clement and Keaontay Ingram in the backfield, after mostly using Clement last week when Conner made his early exit from a 20-19 loss to Denver. The Cardinals haven't indicated that Conner's injury is one that might require offseason surgery, and there's a good chance the 27-year-old is back with the Cardinals in 2023 given that his $5.75 million base salary is fully guaranteed, per OverTheCap.com. A $2 million roster bonus due in mid-March is one potential…read more

Sits out again Thursday

Conner (shin/knee) didn't practice Thursday, Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Analysis: Conner was forced from the Cardinals' Week 17 loss in Atlanta with a shin injury in the fourth quarter, and while coach Kliff Kingsbury told Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com on Monday that the running back was day-to-day, he has yet to mix into drills this week. There was a positive sign Thursday when Conner took part in the team stretch during the open portion of the session, but he proceeded to hit the sidelines for individual drills. He thus has only one more chance to practice Friday before…read more

Present for practice Thursday

Conner (knee/shin) was spotted at practice Thursday, Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Analysis: After logging a 'DNP' on Wednesday, Conner's presence on the field Thursday suggests that he could be available Sunday against the 49ers. The Cardinals' upcoming injury report will provide clarity with regard to the running back's official participation level.

Doesn't practice Wednesday

Conner was a non-participant at Wednesday's walk-through practice due to shin and knee injuries, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner departed this past Sunday's game in Atlanta in the fourth quarter due to the shin issue, ending Week 17 with 19 touches for 110 yards from scrimmage. On Monday, head coach Kliff Kingsbury termed Conner day-to-day but called the running back's injury "nothing major" after X-rays returned negative, according to Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com. Conner also was listed with a knee concern on Wednesday's practice report, so with a pair of injuries, his activity level will continued to be watched to…read more

Considered day-to-day

Head coach Kliff Kingsbury said Monday that Conner (shin) is day-to-day, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Conner left the Week 17 loss to Atlanta in the fourth quarter due to a shin injury, but Kingsbury said the issue was "nothing major," and that X-rays were negative. The 2017 third-round pick's participation in practice should be monitored closely, but it appears like he's trending in the right direction ahead of Arizona's season finale against San Francisco on Sunday.

Picks up injury Sunday

Conner sustained a shin injury during Sunday's game in Atlanta, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Prior to his departure in the fourth quarter, Conner had 16 carries for 79 yards and three catches (on three targets) for 31 yards. With Conner sidelined, the Cardinals are down to Keaontay Ingram and Corey Clement as options out of the backfield.

Good to go

Conner (illness) returned to practice Friday and doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Falcons, Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Analysis: His return as a full participant after back-to-back missed practices sets Conner up for another large workload, though at some point the Cardinals might consider giving their backups some playing time with a playoff berth out of the equation. Conner topped 90 percent snap share in four of the past five games, and he should get plenty of touches Sunday in Atlanta even if he fails to match that number again.

Not seen at practice

Conner (illness) wasn't spotted during the media-access portion of Thursday's practice, Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Analysis: Conner missed Wednesday's walk-through session due to an illness, so what the running back is able to at Friday's practice will added further context in terms of his chances of suiting up Sunday against the Falcons. Next up for the Cardinals' backfield touches if Conner is limited or out versus Atlanta are Keaontay Ingram and Corey Clement.

Comes down with illness

Conner missed Wednesday's walk-through session due to an illness, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner has been a workhorse for Arizona's backfield over the last six games, racking up 130 touches for 605 yards from scrimmage and seven touchdowns during that span. An illness is keeping him off the practice field to start Week 17 prep, but he'll have two more chances to mix into drills Thursday and Friday and avoid a designation ahead of Sunday's visit to Atlanta.

Productive night in OT loss

Conner rushed 15 times for 79 yards and a touchdown and brought in seven of eight targets for 41 yards in the Cardinals' 19-16 overtime loss to the Buccaneers on Sunday night.

Analysis: Conner put together an efficient effort that featured both a 22-yard run and 22-yard reception. The versatile veteran logged all the Cardinals' running back touches except for one that went to rookie Keaontay Ingram, and his early fourth-quarter touchdown run gave him a rushing score for the third consecutive contest. Conner's reception and receiving yardage totals were also season highs, affording him plenty of momentum going into a favorable Week 17 road matchup against the Falcons.

Punches in seventh touchdown

Conner recorded 16 rushes for 63 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 24-15 loss to the Broncos. He added three receptions on five targets for 28 yards.

Analysis: Conner accounted for 16 of Arizona's 17 carries by running backs, though he was largely held in check. He did manage to break free for a 14-yard run early in the third quarter and also tallied a 16-yard reception midway to account for his longest gains of the day. Conner also punched in a late touchdown from one yard away -- his seventh score of the season. He may find it difficult to find running room without Kyler Murray (knee) under center, but Conner has seen at least 15 rushing attempts in…read more

Efficient night in loss

Conner rushed 15 times for 85 yards and a touchdown and brought in six of seven targets for 29 yards in the Cardinals' 27-13 loss to the Patriots on Monday night. He also recovered a fumble.

Analysis: Conner opened the night with a nine-yard reception and six-yard rush before disaster struck on the next play and Kyler Murray went down with what appeared to be a serious knee injury on a non-contact play. The versatile back remained an integral part of the gameplan with Colt McCoy under center, often serving as a safety valve for the veteran and also recording a 10-yard touchdown run with 2:59 remaining in the first half. Conner has put together his two best performances of the season in the…read more

Scores, tallies 140 yards

Conner rushed the ball 25 times for 120 yards in Sunday's 25-24 loss to the Chargers. He added three receptions for 20 yards and a touchdown.

Analysis: Conner accounted for 25 of 27 carries allotted to Arizona running backs and turned in his best effort of the season by a wide margin. He took advantage of a leaky Chargers' run defense to rip off runs of 20 and 18 yards and also found the end zone on a six-yard reception early in the fourth quarter. Conner will continue to see tremendous volume, though it's worth keeping expectations in check given that he had not topped 70 rushing yards in a game this season entering Sunday's matchup.

Touchdown saves inefficient effort

Conner rushed the ball 14 times for 42 yards and a touchdown in Monday's 38-10 loss to the 49ers. He added two receptions on five targets for 12 yards.

Analysis: Conner joined the rest of the Cardinals' offense by turning in a fairly abysmal performance. However, he salvaged his stat line with a two-yard touchdown plunge late in the second quarter. Otherwise, his effort was highlighted by inefficiency and mistakes -- highlighted by a drop early in the second quarter that led directly to San Francisco's second touchdown of the game. With Arizona's running back depth chart extremely thin, Conner is likely to see all the volume he can handle, though that…read more

Finds end zone twice in win

Conner carried the ball 21 times for 69 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 27-17 win over the Rams. He also caught all three of his targets for 17 yards.

Analysis: The 27-year-old back hadn't scored since Week 1, but a healthy Conner finally regained the nose for the end zone he displayed in 2021. He punched in his first TD late in the second quarter on a four-yard run, then scored on a nine-yard scamper midway through the fourth. Conner will look to keep rolling in Week 11 against a 49ers defense he scored three touchdowns against in two meetings last year.

Quiet in Week 9 return

Conner carried the ball seven times for 45 yards and caught all five of his targets for 19 yards in Sunday's 31-21 loss to the Seahawks.

Analysis: Seeing his first action since Week 5 after recovering from a rib injury, Conner saw 12 touches to Eno Benjamin's five but was still out-gained on the ground by Kyler Murray. The workload split in the Arizona backfield might be due to Conner's layoff, but Benjamin may also have shown enough over the last three games to retain a role in the offense, leaving Conner's upside somewhat in question heading into a Week 10 road matchup against the Rams.

Back in action Sunday

Conner (ribs) is active for Sunday's game versus the Seahawks.

Analysis: The Cardinals are welcoming back Conner for the first time since Week 5, when he suffered a rib injury that forced three consecutive absences. He was limited in practice for the entirety of Week 9 prep, and his availability Sunday was contingent on a pregame warmup, so there's a chance he operates in a timeshare with Eno Benjamin and, to a lesser extent, rookie sixth-round pick Keaontay Ingram in his return to action. On the season, Conner has averaged 3.7 yards on his 54 carries, hauled in 14…read more

Expected to play

Conner (ribs), officially listed as questionable, is expected to play Sunday against Seattle, Fox's Jay Glazer reports.

Analysis: Earlier reports suggested that the Cardinals plan to test Conner during pre-game warmups before determining his availability, but Glazer's report is more optimistic. Either way, there's still some uncertainty about Conner's status that won't be resolved until Arizona's inactives are posted ahead of the team's 4:05 ET kickoff. Eno Benjamin and Keaontay Ingram are on hand to log added snaps Sunday if Conner experiences any setbacks in warmups or in-game (if active).

Trending toward playing Sunday

The Cardinals plan to test Conner (ribs) out during pre-game warmups, with Adam Schefter of ESPN indicating that the running back is likely to play Sunday against the Seahawks.

Analysis: Conner is officially listed as questionable for the contest after practicing in a limited fashion this week, with his Week 9 status set to be confirmed either way when the Cardinals' inactives are posted ahead of the team's 4:05 ET kickoff. Eno Benjamin and Keaontay Ingram are on hand to log added snaps Sunday if Conner experiences any setbacks in warmups or in-game (if active).

Hopeful for Week 9 return

The Cardinals are hopeful that Conner (ribs), officially listed as questionable, will return for Sunday's game against the Seahawks, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Conner has missed the last three games, but he logged limited practices Wednesday through Friday before taking a designation into the Week 9 matchup. Though Conner looks to be trending toward playing Sunday at this juncture, how he looks in pregame warmups will likely dictate whether he's active and what kind of workload he handles if he does suit up. With that in mind, Eno Benjamin, who has been the Cardinals' top back the past three games, could end up having a role in the game plan even if…read more

Appears truly questionable

Conner (ribs), a likely game-time decision, is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Seattle, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: The designation was inevitable once coach Kliff Kingsbury said Friday that he considers Conner a game-time call ahead of a 4:05 p.m. ET kickoff with their NFC West avian rivals. It's a sign of progress after Conner was ruled out on the final injury report last week, his third consecutive absence since hurting his ribs in a Week 5 loss to the Eagles. With Darrel Williams (hip) on injured reserve, the Cardinals will rely on Keaontay Ingram as the backup to Eno Benjamin if Conner misses a fourth…read more

Game-time call for Sunday

Coach Kliff Kingsbury considers Conner (ribs) a game-time decision for Sunday's game against the Seahawks, Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Analysis: For a second week in a row, Conner opened it with back-to-back capped practices. However, last Friday, he didn't practice at all and was ruled out, so he appears to be in a much better spot, health-wise. In the end, Conner likely will be accompanied by a questionable designation upon the release of this Friday's injury report.

Remains limited Thursday

Conner (ribs) was limited at Thursday's practice, Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Analysis: Like he did Wednesday, Conner again had a cap on his reps one day later as he continues his recovery from the rib injury that so far has forced three consecutive absences. Until he logs a full session or the Cardinals otherwise remove his designation, his status seemingly is in limbo. Coach Kliff Kingsbury did call Conner day-to-day earlier this week, so the running back may be drawing close to a return to action. Friday's practice report could signal that Conner is good to go for Sunday's game…read more

Begins week as limited

Conner (ribs) practiced in a limited fashion Wednesday, Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Analysis: Conner seems to be scratching and clawing his way to gain clearance for game action. After opening Week 8 prep with back-to-back capped practices, he didn't practice last Friday before the Cardinals ruled him out for this past Sunday's visit to Minnesota. Conner again is starting this week as a limited participant, while fellow running back Darrel Williams (hip) didn't practice and was placed on injured reserve with a new injury, per Darren Urban of the team's official site. With two more…read more

Termed 'day-to-day' by Kingsbury

Coach Kliff Kingsbury called Conner (ribs) day-to-day Monday, Bob McManaman of The Arizona Republic reports.

Analysis: Kingsbury termed Conner day-to-day in the immediate aftermath of the running back injuring his ribs Week 5, but he's proceeded to miss three consecutive contests. Prior to being ruled out on the last occasion Friday, Conner managed a pair of limited practices Wednesday and Thursday before sitting out entirely to cap Week 8 prep. Those active sessions may have spurred Kingsbury's comment Monday, but Conner's activity level will be monitored this week to get a sense of his potential to return…read more

Out this week

Conner (ribs) has been ruled out for Sunday's game at Minnesota, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Darrel Williams (knee) is a game-time decision, potentially giving the Cardinals a third backfield option alongside Eno Benjamin and Keaontay Ingram, both of whom scored touchdowns in a Week 7 win over New Orleans. There's a good chance Benjamin keeps the lead role even if Williams plays, but it would still add risk to have another body involved. Despite making it back to limited practice participation this week, Conner will miss a third straight game.

Stays limited at practice

Conner (ribs) was limited at Thursday's practice, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner has put together back-to-back capped sessions as he attempts to get past the rib injury that has sidelined him the last two games. Friday's practice report may provide a glimpse into the breakdown of Arizona's backfield ahead of Sunday's contest at Minnesota, with the statuses of both Conner and Darrel Williams (knee) up in the air. If the pair is active this weekend, Conner again may resume his standing as the team's lead runner, but he could yield reps to both Williams and Eno Benjamin.

Returns to limited practice

Conner (ribs) practiced on a limited basis Wednesday, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: The appearance on the field marked Conner's first since injuring his ribs Week 5 against the Eagles. He's missed two games as a result, but the limited showing may be a sign that he's inching toward a return to action. Fellow running back Darrel Williams (knee) also was limited Wednesday, meaning the Cardinals backfield is slowly getting back to full strength. If Conner gets the green light to play Sunday at Minnesota, he likely will reclaim lead-back duties from Eno Benjamin, though the latter…read more

Not suiting up Thursday

Conner (ribs) is listed as inactive Thursday against the Saints.

Analysis: Conner thus will miss a second game in a row along with Darrel Williams (knee), leaving the Cardinals backfield in the hands of Eno Benjamin (foot) and, to a lesser extent, rookie sixth-round pick Keaontay Ingram. After Thursday's contest, Arizona doesn't play again until Sunday, Oct. 30 at Minnesota, so Conner will have extra time to get healthy ahead of Week 8 action.

Game-time call for Thursday

Conner (ribs) didn't practice Wednesday but is listed as questionable for Thursday's game against the Saints, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner hasn't practiced since emerging from a Week 5 loss to the Eagles with a rib injury, but head coach Kliff Kingsbury noted Wednesday that the running back will be a game-time decision Thursday, per Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com. At the latest, Conner's status will be confirmed about 90 minutes before an 8:15 p.m. ET kickoff, but if he joins Darrel Williams (knee) in street clothes, Eno Benjamin (foot) again will lead Arizona's backfield after capping Week 7 prep with a full practice.

Spectates for another practice

Conner (ribs) was listed as a non-participant on Tuesday's practice report, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner hasn't logged any recorded or estimated practice activity since injuring his ribs in the first half of a Week 5 loss to the Eagles. The running back will have one more chance to get back on the practice field prior to Thursday's game against the Saints, but at this point, Conner looks to be trending toward missing a second straight contest. Eno Benjamin (foot) would be in line for another turn as Arizona's lead back.

DNP on estimated report

Conner (ribs) was listed as a non-participant on Monday's estimated injury report, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner sat out Week 6 after not practicing due to a rib injury he picked up a week prior. Fellow running back Darrel Williams (knee) also was ruled out, paving the way for Eno Benjamin (foot) to garner an increased role. However, all three of those backs were listed on Arizona's practice estimate Monday, with Benjamin the only one labeled as a limited participant. Considering it's a short week ahead of Thursday's matchup against New Orleans, it may be difficult for Conner or Williams to ramp…read more

Ruled out this week

Head coach Kliff Kingsbury said Conner (ribs) won't play Sunday against the Seahawks, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Kingsbury also ruled out fellow running back Darrel Williams (knee), and expressed uncertainty about Conner's and Williams' chances of being available for the Cardinals' Week 7 game against the Saints next Thursday. For at least Week 6, the absences of Conner and Williams likely paves the way Eno Benjamin to step into a lead role out of the backfield, while rookie sixth-round pick Keaontay Ingram and practice-squad call-up Corey Clement are expected to fill depth roles behind him.

Doesn't practice, may miss Week 6

Conner (ribs) didn't practice Thursday, Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Analysis: After sitting out Wednesday's walk-through session. Conner followed it up with another absence at an official session one day later, giving him just one more opportunity to join his teammates on the field this week. Considering his veteran status and familiarity with the offense, he may not need to practice to be available on game day, though Aaron Wilson of ProFootballNetwork.com reports that Conner is expected to sit out Sunday's game in Seattle. Friday's injury report should provide more…read more

Not seen at practice Thursday

Conner (ribs) wasn't spotted during the media-access portion of Thursday's practice, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: If he eventually goes down as a non-participant for a second consecutive day, Conner will have just one more opportunity to mix into drills before Arizona tags him with a designation ahead of Sunday's contest at Seattle. Head coach Kliff Kingsbury has called Conner day-to-day this week, so there's a chance the sixth-year pro doesn't need to practice to be available on game day. If Conner is limited or out this weekend, Eno Benjamin would take the reins of the Cardinals backfield with Darrel…read more

Doesn't practice Wednesday

Conner (rib) was unable to take part in Wednesday's walk-through session, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Conner made an early departure from the Cardinals' Week 5 loss to the Eagles, the second time in five games in which he was forced out of a contest prematurely. This time around, head coach Kliff Kingsbury has called Conner "day-to-day," according to Darren Urban of the team's official site, but it hasn't translated to any on-field work yet. Conner's status thus bears monitoring as the weekend draws closer to get a sense of his potential to play Sunday at Seattle. Meanwhile, with Darrel…read more

Deemed 'day-to-day'

Head coach Kliff Kingsbury said Wednesday that Conner (ribs) is day-to-day, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner exited this past Sunday's loss to the Eagles in the third quarter with a rib issue. Following the game, Kingsbury told Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com that Conner checked out fine, but the team will take a cautious approach with its top running back ahead of Sunday's game in Seattle. Speaking of the backfield, special teamer Jonathan Ward (hamstring) was placed on injured reserve Wednesday, while Darrel Williams (knee) isn't slated to play Week 6. Eno Benjamin and rookie sixth-round pick…read more

Seems to have avoided major injury

Arizona head coach Kliff Kingsbury said after Sunday's 20-17 loss to Philadelphia that Conner checked out OK after injuring his ribs in the first half of the contest, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports. "We're checking everything out. It's something in the rib area, and they're just being very cautious with him right now," Kingsbury said of Conner.

Analysis: Conner played 24 snaps and gained 55 yards on nine carries and eight yards on one reception before leaving the game late in the second quarter. Eno Benjamin stepped up behind him to draw 11 touches in the narrow loss, but the Cardinals appear to be tentatively planning as though Conner will be available for the team's Week 6 game in Seattle. The Cardinals likely will wait and see if Conner's upcoming tests reveal anything concerning before the team has a clearer idea about his status heading…read more

Exits Sunday with rib injury

Conner departed Sunday's game against the Eagles due to a rib issue, Kent Somers of The Arizona Republic reports.

Analysis: Prior to picking up the injury, Conner reeled off 55 yards on nine carries and hauled in his only target for eight yards. If Conner is unable to return, Darrel Williams and Eno Benjamin will split work out of the Cardinals backfield.

Leading rusher against Carolina

Conner carried the ball 15 times for 55 yards and caught all three of his targets for 22 yards in Sunday's 26-16 win over the Panthers.

Analysis: His scrimmage yards total was modest, but it was a season high for Conner. Eno Benjamin and Darrel Williams combined for 55 rushing yards on only nine carries, however, so while Conner remains the lead back for Arizona, his inefficiency could begin to cost him touches heading into a Week 5 matchup with the undefeated Eagles.

Ready for Week 4

Conner (knee) doesn't have a designation for Sunday's game at Carolina, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: After opening Week 4 prep with back-to-back limited sessions due to a knee injury, Conner handled every practice rep Friday, paving the way for him to lead the Cardinals backfield yet again this weekend. He's found the going tough through three games this season, mustering 90 yards and a touchdown on 30 carries and recording 10 catches (on 15 targets) for 73 yards.

Limited again Thursday

Conner (knee) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday, Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Analysis: For a second consecutive week, Conner is tending to a health concern, this time to his knee. So far, he's logged back-to-back capped sessions during Week 4 prep, so his listing on Friday's practice report may give a sense of his chances to suit up Sunday at Carolina. On the season, Conner is averaging a paltry 3.0 YPC on 30 rushes, hauled in 10 of 15 targets for 73 yards and scored one rushing touchdown.

Tending to knee injury

Conner practiced in a limited capacity Wednesday due to a knee injury, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner emerged from Week 2 with an ankle issue but was able to suit up this past Sunday against the Rams, playing 50 of 83 offensive snaps (60 percent) on his way to 16 touches for 57 yards from scrimmage. He's now tending to a new injury, though he at least mixed into some drills to kick off Week 4 prep. In any case, Conner's status should be monitored in the coming days to get a sense of his availability for Sunday's game at Carolina.

Held in check by Rams

Conner carried the ball 13 times for 39 yards and caught three of five targets for 18 yards in Sunday's 20-12 loss to the Rams.

Analysis: For the third straight game, Conner failed to gain much yardage, and his 57 scrimmage yards were actually a season high. The former Steeler remains entrenched at the top of the Cardinals depth chart -- backups Eno Benjamin and Darrel Williams combined for only eight touches and 30 yards Sunday -- but he might need to get back into the end zone to make a fantasy impact in Week 4 against the Panthers.

Available in Week 3

Conner (ankle) is listed as active Sunday against the Rams, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner was knocked out of the Cardinals' Week 2 win at Las Vegas with an ankle injury, which kept him to limited practices Thursday and Friday in advance of Sunday's contest. Coach Kliff Kingsbury termed Conner a game-time decision, and after a pregame workout he'll be available to Arizona's backfield. Typically, Conner would dominate the touches afforded the team's running backs, but Kingsbury may opt for a rare timeshare of sorts between Conner, Darrel Williams and Eno Benjamin. As a result,…read more

Optimism regarding Sunday availability

Conner, who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Rams with an ankle injury, is slated to test things out pre-game, but there is optimism he'll play in the contest, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

Analysis: Conner missed Wednesday's practice before returning to limited sessions Thursday and Friday. In any case, fantasy managers considering Conner in Week 3 lineups are advised to verify the running back's status ahead of Sunday's 4:25 ET kickoff, but in the absence of any setbacks in warmups, it appears as though he's trending in the right direction. If, however, he ends up out or limited Sunday, Darrel Williams and Eno Benjamin would be next up for touches in the Cardinals' backfield.

Truly questionable

Conner, a likely game-time decision due to an ankle injury, is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Rams, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: The Cardinals reportedly won't decide on Conner's availability until they've seen his pregame workout ahead of the 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff Sunday. If he ends up on the inactive list, it'll be Eno Benjamin and Darrel Williams handling most of the backfield snaps, with the nature of their workload split rather difficult to determine beforehand. Benjamin worked as the No. 2 back in Week 1 and took seven touches for 61 yards, but he then split work with Williams after Conner's early exit from the Week…read more

Likely game-time call

Coach Kliff Kingsbury said Friday that Conner (ankle) will be a game-time decision for Sunday's matchup with the Rams, Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Analysis: While his ankle injury isn't too serious, Conner was unable to return to last week's game after his exit and now is in danger of missing a contest. The Rams and Cardinals are scheduled for a 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff this Sunday, with Darrel Williams and Eno Benjamin on hand as the backfield replacements if Conner doesn't play. Benjamin served as Conner's backup in the season opener, but Williams had a bigger impact after the injury last week with a long run and a touchdown in the overtime win over…read more

Back to limited practice

Conner (ankle) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday, Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Analysis: Conner left the Cardinals' eventual Week 2 win in Las Vegas with an ankle injury that sidelined him at Wednesday's session. Now that he's back on the field, he's giving himself a chance to miss no more time as a result of the issue. Still, Friday's practice report could leave him with a designation entering the weekend. If Conner is limited or out Sunday against the Rams, Darrel Williams and Eno Benjamin likely would split the touches out of Arizona's backfield.

Spotted at practice

Conner (ankle) was present for Thursday's practice, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: After sitting out the Cardinals' first practice of the week, Conner, who coach Kliff Kingsbury called "day-to-day" Wednesday, was on the field Thursday, but it remains to be seen how the team lists his participation level. If the running back is out or limited at all Sunday against the Rams, Darrel Williams and Eno Benjamin would be next up for added backfield reps Week 3.

Sits out practice Wednesday

Conner (ankle) didn't take part in practice Wednesday, Tyler Drake of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Analysis: Per Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site, head coach Kliff Kingsbury called Conner "day-to-day" earlier Wednesday, but the sixth-year pro didn't end up logging any on-field work in the first session of Week 3. Conner has two more opportunities to do so before the team potentially gives him a designation for Sunday's game against the Rams. If Conner is limited or sidelined this weekend, Darrel Williams and Eno Benjamin are the next players up in Arizona's backfield.

Remains day-to-day

Head coach Kliff Kingsbury said Wednesday that Conner (ankle) still is day-to-day, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner made an early departure from Arizona's Week 2 overtime win at Las Vegas due to an ankle injury. He appears to have avoided a significant injury, and his ability to practice this week will confirm as much. Conner's activity level on Wednesday's injury report will give a sense of whether he may be trending in the right direction for Sunday's game against the Rams.

Avoids long-term injury

Conner (ankle) isn't believe to have suffered a severe injury in Sunday's overtime victory over the Raiders, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Conner wasn't able to return to Sunday's contest, but he looks like he may be able to avoid a lengthy recovery timeline. His chances of playing Week 3 versus the Rams likely will depend on the extent of his practice activity, so Conner's status will need to be monitored going forward. Eno Benjamin and Darrel Williams would stand to handle increased reps if Conner does miss time or suit up while limited.

Injures ankle Sunday

Conner exited Sunday's game against the Raiders with an ankle injury.

Analysis: Prior to leaving the game, Conner had carried seven times for 25 yards and caught two of his four targets for 26 yards. Next up for the Cardinals' backfield touches in Conner's absence are Eno Benjamin and Darrel Williams.

Gets into end zone in loss

Conner carried the ball 10 times for 26 yards and a touchdown and caught five of six targets for 29 yards in Sunday's 44-21 loss to Kansas City.

Analysis: While the yardage wasn't impressive, Conner showed his nose for the end zone with a two-yard plunge early in the second quarter to get the Cardinals on the board. The 27-year-old scored 18 TDs in 15 games in his first season for Arizona in 2021, and as long as Conner can stay mostly healthy he stands a good chance of reaching double digits once again.

Not slated to play in preseason finale

Conner is not in line to play in Saturday's preseason finale against the Titans, Jose M. Romero of The Arizona Republic reports.

Analysis: Conner and the team's full allotment of top available skill players are thus in line to see their next game action in Week 1 against the Chiefs. While Conner is the team's clear-cut top RB, the pecking order behind him has yet to be solidified, as Darrel Williams, Eno Benjamin, Keaontay Ingram and Jonathan Ward (shoulder) continue to compete for depth chart slotting.

Unlikely to play this weekend

Coach Kliff Kingsbury suggested Conner and other starters will be held out again for the Cardinals' second preseason game Sunday against the Ravens, Darren Urban of the team's official site reports.

Analysis: Kingsbury said he's leaning toward a repeat of his plan from the preseason opener, in which Conner and most other starters were held out, as was backup running back Darrel Williams. The competition in Arizona's backfield is between Williams, Eno Benjamin and Keaontay Ingram for backup roles, while Conner is locked in atop the depth chart.

Stays in the desert

Conner and the Cardinals have reached agreement on a three-year contract, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: The 230-pound back was a smash hit after signing a modest one-year contract last offseason, finishing 2021 with 1,127 total yards (375 receiving) and 18 touchdowns. Conner spent most of the year in a committee with Chase Edmonds, who is signing a two-year contract with the Dolphins, per Adam Schefter of ESPN. It remains to be seen if the Cardinals sign/draft a comparable replacement for Edmonds; if not, Conner could take on a three-down role again.

Scores in season-ending defeat

Conner rushed four times for 19 yards and a touchdown in Monday night's 34-11 wild-card round loss to the Rams. He also caught one of two targets for five yards.

Analysis: Conner had his snaps limited while battling through a rib injury, with the game flow of Monday's blowout also restricting his involvement as a runner. As usual, though, the tailback managed to find the end zone, scoring from two yards to finally get Arizona on the board in the third quarter. After inking a one-year deal with the Cardinals last offseason, Conner went on to finish third league-wide in touchdowns despite playing just 15 games, with 15 of his 18 scores coming on the ground. He…read more

Available Monday

Conner (ribs) is listed as active for Monday's wild-card game against the Rams, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner managed just one limited practice this week in advance of the contest due to a rib injury suffered during a Week 18 loss to the Seahawks. While his status is confirmed for Arizona's playoff opener, it remains to be seen what kind of workload he'll be able to handle. In the 10 games in which both he and Chase Edmonds (ribs/toe) were available this season, Conner earned 135 touches to Edmonds' 112, but it should be noted that Edmonds appears to be healthier than Conner after going limited,…read more

Status in question for Monday

Conner (ribs) is listed as questionable for Monday's wild-card game at the Rams, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Conner made his first appearance on the practice field Saturday since departing the Cardinals' season finale against the Seahawks with rib injury, logging a limited session. Jonathan Ward (knee) had the same practice regimen this week, while Chase Edmonds (ribs/toe) followed up back-to-back limited listings with a full practice Saturday. Edmonds is the only one of the three without a designation for the team's playoff opener, making him the best bet to lead the backfield Monday. Earlier in the…read more

Spotted at practice Saturday

Conner (ribs) was present at the portion of Saturday's practice open to the media, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: It remains to be seen how much Conner was able to practice, but the Cardinals' injury report should reveal that in short order. The running back did not practice both Thursday and Friday thanks to a rib injury suffered in the Week 18 loss to the Seahawks.

No practice reps Friday

Conner (ribs) was a non-participant in practice Friday for the second day in a row, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Though head coach Kliff Kingsbury is terming Conner as a game-day decision as Monday's wild-card matchup with the Rams approaches, the running back's absence from the Cardinals' first two practices of the week isn't a promising sign for his availability. Unless Conner is able to take a step forward in terms of activity Saturday, he'll be at great risk of being sidelined for the third time in the Cardinals' last four games. In that scenario, Chase Edmonds (ribs/toe) -- who remained a limited…read more

Not spotted at practice Friday

Conner (ribs) wasn't seen during the portion of Friday's practice that was open to the media, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Conner, who suffered the rib injury during the Cardinals' Week 18 loss to the Seahawks, was unable to practice Thursday and looks set to miss another session. The 26-year-will have one more opportunity Saturday to take the field ahead of Monday's wild-card matchup with the Rams.

Doesn't practice Thursday

Conner (ribs) was held out of Thursday's practice, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: After sitting out Weeks 16 and 17 due to a heel injury, Conner returned for the Cardinals' regular-season finale against the Seahawks and took on the bulk of the backfield work (21 touches on 59 percent snap share) before departing in the fourth quarter with a rib issue. Coach Kliff Kingsbury termed both Conner and Chase Edmonds (ribs/toe), who sat out Week 18 but was limited Wednesday, as game-time decisions for Monday's playoff opener at the Rams, according to Darren Urban of the Cardinals'…read more

Considered day-to-day

Head coach Kliff Kingsbury considers Conner (ribs/heel) day-to-day, saying Wednesday that the running back will be tested at Thursday's practice, Dana Scott of The Arizona Republic reports.

Analysis: Conner missed Weeks 16 and 17 with a heel injury, then hurt his ribs in the fourth quarter of the Week 18 loss to Seattle. He thus appears uncertain for Monday's wild-card matchup with the Rams, though there's some opportunity for a huge workload if he recovers quickly. Fellow Cardinals running backs Chase Edmonds (ribs/toe) and Jonathan Ward (knee) also are day-to-day with injuries, with neither looking like a safe bet to suit up for the postseason opener.

Exits with injured ribs

Conner left Sunday's game against the Seahawks with a rib injury and is questionable to return.

Analysis: Conner was injured in the fourth quarter of Sunday's contest, and it's not yet clear if he will be able to re-enter the game. Fellow running back Jonathan Ward also exited the game, leaving Eno Benjamin as the Cardinals' only healthy running back.

Back in action Sunday

Conner (heel) is listed as active Sunday versus the Seahawks, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: The Cardinals ruled out Chase Edmonds (ribs/toe) ahead of Week 18 action, but a cloud hung over Conner's ability to suit up after missing back-to-back games due to a heel injury. Conner managed limited practices Wednesday through Friday, which was enough to allow him to return. Arizona has a chance to win the NFC West with a win and a Rams loss, so coach Kliff Kingsbury may leand on Conner as he did prior to his recent absence. When Edmonds sat out Weeks 10-14 due to a high-ankle sprain, Conner…read more

Listed as questionable

Conner (heel) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Seattle, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: With backfield mate Chase Edmonds (ribs/toe) already ruled out, the Cards have some extra incentive to get Conner back in action after back-to-back missed games. Still, fantasy managers should treat him as questionable barring further updates, with Eno Benjamin and Jonathan Ward on hand for RB snaps if Conner can't go or is limited. The Cardinals are scheduled for a 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff, needing a win or a Rams loss to earn the NFC West crown.

Limited again Thursday

Conner (heel) was limited at practice Thursday, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: While Conner maintained his activity level from Wednesday, fellow running back Chase Edmonds (ribs/toe) did, too, only he remained sidelined from practice. Conner has missed the last two games due to a heel injury, but considering he's healthier than Edmonds at the moment he seems to have a better shot to play Sunday against the Seahawks. Friday's injury report may provide some insight into the state of the Cardinals backfield heading into the weekend.

Puts in another limited practice

Conner (heel) was a limited practice participant Wednesday, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Conner has missed two straight games due to a heel injury, but he now has logged two consecutive limited sessions dating back to last week. Chase Edmonds, who filled in for Conner as the Cardinals' lead running back during that span, didn't practice at all Wednesday with rib and toe issues. Conner seems to be in a better place health-wise than Edmonds at the moment, but how the rest of Week 18 transpires will determine who among the two is available Sunday against the Seahawks. When active this…read more

Another absence Sunday

Conner (heel) is inactive for Sunday's game at Dallas, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: There was a glimmer of hope for Conner to return to action after he managed a limited practice Friday, his first appearance on the field since picking up a heel injury back in Week 15. While he was considered a game-time decision for a second straight contest, he'll log another DNP on his game log. Conner thus will hand most of the backfield reps to Chase Edmonds, who notched 24 touches for 127 yards yards from scrimmage and one TD in Week 16 against the Colts.

Game-time decision Sunday

Though the Cardinals view Conner (heel) as a game-time decision, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport relays that there is optimism the running back will be able play Sunday against the Cowboys.

Analysis: Conner is listed as questionable for the contest after returning to a limited practice Friday following a missed session Thursday. If he is made active for Sunday's 4:25 ET contest, Conner would be in line to return to a backfield timeshare with Chase Edmonds.

Questionable for Sunday

Conner (heel) returned to a limited practice Friday and is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Cowboys, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Chase Edmonds (back) upgraded to full participation Friday and thus avoids an injury designation, after handling 24 touches and a 92 percent snap share in a 22-16 loss to Indianapolis last Saturday -- the first game Conner has missed all season. Conner could be a game-time decision ahead of Sunday's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff, with his potential absence locking in Edmonds for a large workload and Eno Benjamin for a backup role. If Conner plays, he'll likely return to his timeshare with Edmonds.

Another absence from practice

Conner (heel) was a non-participant at Thursday's practice, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner now has been listed as a DNP on five consecutive injury reports, the result of a heel injury. Coach Kliff Kingsbury again considers Conner to be a game-time decision for Sunday's contest at Dallas, according to Urban. But such comments last week yielded inactive status for Conner this past Saturday against the Colts. He may head into the weekend with a questionable designation -- as he did a week ago -- while backfield mate Chase Edmonds could be listed the same way, as he was limited…read more

Not practicing yet

Conner (heel) didn't practice Wednesday, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner has yet to practice due to the heel issue that he picked up coming out of the Cardinals' Week 15 loss to the Lions. Last week, his availability came down to the wire before he was ultimately inactive ahead of the Cardinals' loss to the Colts. Head coach Kliff Kingsbury said Wednesday that Conner will be in a similar situation this week, with the running back's status likely coming down to a game-time call ahead of a 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff Sunday in Dallas, according to Urban. Conner would…read more

Trending toward game-time call

Head coach Kliff Kingsbury said Wednesday that Conner (heel) remains day-to-day and will likely be a game-time decision for Sunday's tilt with the Cowboys, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Kingsbury characterized wideout Rondale Moore (ankle) the same way. If Conner, who was inactive for the Cardinals' Week 16 loss to the Colts, remains out this weekend, fellow running back Chase Edmonds would once again be in line for an expanded role in the Arizona backfield.

Still day-to-day with heel injury

Coach Kliff Kingsbury considers Conner (heel) day-to-day as of Monday, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: The Cardinals held Conner out of practice last week so he could rest his heel issue. All along, though, both the running back and the team were optimistic he'd be able to play through the injury. In the end, Conner didn't heal enough to suit up Saturday against the Colts, which gave the keys to the backfield to Chase Edmonds. Edmonds ended up reeling off 127 yards from scrimmage and one TD on 24 touches, or a similar workload to what Conner handled when he was the unquestioned back during the…read more

Sitting out Saturday

Conner (heel) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Colts, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner was held out of practice Tuesday through Thursday due to a heel issue, but the running back said late in the week that he was optimistic about being able to suit up this weekend, per Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com. Earlier Saturday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reported that the Cards expected Conner to be available, but upon the release of inactives Schefter noted a team executive texted that he "didn't progress enough" to do so. With Conner sidelined, Chase Edmonds should take on a majority share…read more

Expected to play Saturday

Conner (heel) is expected to play Saturday night against the Colts, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Though Conner didn't practice this past week, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com previously relayed that the running back was optimistic about suiting up for the contest while noting that his ability to contribute would come down to pain management in terms of his heel. Either way, Conner's Week 16 status will be confirmed when the Cardinals' inactives are posted prior to Saturday's 8:15 ET kickoff. If active, he'd presumably work in a time-share with Chase Edmonds.

Believes he'll play Saturday

Conner (heel) relayed Thursday that he believes he'll suit up Saturday versus the Colts, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: After failing to practice in any capacity this week, Conner still received the questionable tag from the Cardinals. The decision lines up with coach Kliff Kingsbury terming Conner a game-time decision ahead of Saturday's 8:15 p.m. ET kickoff, according to Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site. Conner himself noted that his ankle injury from last week isn't an issue anymore, so his availability this weekend will come down to pain management with his heel. If Conner is out or limited…read more

Status in question for Saturday

Conner (heel) is listed as questionable for Saturday's contest against the Colts, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner didn't practice at all this week due to a heel injury that has him trending toward being a game-time decision for Saturday's 8:15 p.m. ET kickoff, coach Kliff Kingsbury told Urban earlier Thursday. If Conner is able to suit up, he may yield a majority share of the backfield to Chase Edmonds, especially with his long-term health in mind.

Viewed as game-day decision Week 16

Arizona head coach Kliff Kingsbury said after Thursday's practice that Conner (heel) is considered a game-day decision as Saturday's contest against the Colts approaches, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Expect Arizona to officially list Conner as questionable on its final Week 16 injury report, which will be released later Thursday. After being listed as a non-participant on practice reports Tuesday and Wednesday, Conner will likely get the same tag again Thursday, as Howard Balzer of SI.com noted that the running back wasn't taking part in the portion of the workout that was open to the media. Given the lack of practice reps this week, Conner may be trending toward sitting out or having his…read more

No practice Wednesday

Conner (heel) didn't practice Wednesday, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner has yet to be listed as anything more than a non-participant on the Cardinals' first two Week 16 practice reports. There's been no word from the team whether he's in danger of sitting out Saturday against the Colts, but his status bears watching to get a sense of his availability. Conner split backfield reps with Chase Edmonds this past Sunday in Detroit, earning 42 percent of snaps and 10 touches to the latter's 40 and six, respectively.

Tending to heel injury

Conner (heel) was listed as a non-participant on Tuesday's estimated injury report, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Conner played through an ankle issue last week as Chase Edmonds (ankle) returned to the backfield following a four-game IR stint. The pair split the RB reps at Detroit, with Conner logging a 42 percent snap share and 10 touches and Edmonds turning a 40 percent share into six carries. Conner now is dealing with a heel injury as well, so Edmonds could be line for the bigger workload Saturday against the Colts.

Held in check by Lions

Conner (ankle) rushed eight times for 39 yards and caught both of his targets for 31 yards in Sunday's 30-12 loss to Detroit.

Analysis: Conner had thrived in a leading role in recent weeks but came back down to earth while splitting carries with Chase Edmonds, who returned from an ankle injury of his own. Edmonds mustered 53 yards on six touches, as neither running back saw significant involvement due to a surprisingly negative game script. Conner's fantasy managers will be disappointed in this pedestrian performance against a Lions defense that's struggled to defend running backs, but at least the ankle injury he picked up at…read more

Suiting up Sunday

Conner (ankle) is listed as active Sunday at Detroit.

Analysis: Conner's usage has ballooned since Chase Edmonds sustained a high ankle sprain Week 9. In four contests in the meantime, Conner earned between 81 and 96 percent of offensive snaps per game on his way to 83 touches for 399 yards from scrimmage and five total TDs. Unfortunately for Conner, he picked up his own ankle injury near the end of the Cardinals' Week 14 loss to the Rams, capping him to one limited practice this week. Despite being listed as questionable, he'll be available Sunday as the…read more

In line to play Sunday

Conner (ankle) remains listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Lions but is expected to play, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: The 26-year-old played at least 81 percent of the Cardinals' offensive snaps in each of the last four games, but if he suits up, Conner will likely have to cede more backfield work to Chase Edmonds (ankle), who was activated from injured reserve Saturday. Confirmation on Conner's availability should arrive when Arizona releases its inactive list 90 minutes prior to Sunday's 1 p.m. ET kickoff.

Officially questionable

Conner (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game in Detroit, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Coach Kliff Kingsbury said Friday that he expects both Conner (ankle) and Chase Edmonds (ankle) to play this week, with the latter set to return from IR after missing four games. Conner isn't likely to continue his high-end RB1 production down the stretch, but he did score eight TDs over the first eight weeks of the season with Edmonds healthy, and Conner's strong performance over the past month could give him a larger share of the backfield workload compared to September/October. The ankle…read more

Back at practice

Conner (ankle) returned to practice Friday, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: It gives him a shot to play in Sunday's game at Detroit, following missed practices Wednesday and Thursday. Meanwhile, Chase Edmonds (knee) is looking ready to return from IR, potentially dropping Conner back to smaller role even if the ankle injury doesn't prevent him from playing or limit his effectiveness.

Still not practicing

Conner (ankle) didn't practice Thursday, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Since Chase Edmonds went down early with a high-ankle sprain in a Week 9 win at San Francisco, Conner has averaged 21.8 touches for 114.4 yards from scrimmage per game while scoring eight total TDs over five contests. Conner's workload has ranged between 76 and 96 percent of offensive plays during that span as the Cardinals' unquestioned lead back, but he also sustained an ankle injury while getting tackled near the conclusion of Monday's loss to the Rams, per Darren Urban of the team's…read more

No activity Wednesday

Conner (ankle) was listed as a non-participant on Wednesday's practice report, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: In the wake of another productive performance in Monday's loss to the Rams, Conner emerged from the contest with an ankle injury that necessitated an MRI. According to Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site, head coach Kliff Kingsbury termed Conner "day-to-day" earlier Wednesday, but the running back proceeded to focus on rehab over on-field work in the first session of Week 15 prep. Conner has two more chances to mix into drills this week, but if he's available Sunday in Detroit, he…read more

Labeled day-to-day by coach

Arizona head coach Kliff Kingsbury said Wednesday that Conner (ankle) is viewed as day-to-day, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner underwent an MRI to address the severity of his ankle injury Tuesday, but the running back appears to have avoided something that will keep him sidelined long term. That said, the Cardinals will likely wait to comment on Conner's availability for Week 15 in Detroit until after evaluating him during a few practice sessions. Meanwhile, top wideout DeAndre Hopkins (leg) is set to receive a second opinion on his injury after receiving an MRI on Tuesday. Chase Edmonds (ankle) also looks like…read more

Getting MRI on ankle

Conner will have an MRI done on his ankle, Doug Kyed of Pro Football Focus reports.

Analysis: Conner has been instrumental to the Cardinals' success this season, tallying a combined 16 rushing and receiving touchdowns. His potential absence for any length of time could leave the team without its top two backs heading into Sunday's game against the Lions, though Chase Edmonds (ankle) is close to a return from IR.

Adds to touchdown tally

Conner rushed 13 times for 31 yards and two touchdowns, and caught all nine of his targets for 94 yards in Monday night's 30-23 loss to the Rams.

Analysis: Conner was largely bottled up in the running game, but he nonetheless turned in a fantastic performance. He punished defenders with his physicality, including on both of his touchdown runs, and made them miss on other occasions. Along with extending his touchdown streak to seven games, Conner also made an awesome, one-handed catch for the second straight outing, ultimately contributing toward career highs in receptions, targets and receiving yards. With 125 yards from scrimmage, he again…read more

Top running back for another week

Conner will remain the Cardinals' lead running back Monday versus the Rams after the team opted not to activate Chase Edmonds (ankle) from injured reserve, Field Yates of ESPN reports.

Analysis: The Cards designated Edmonds to return from IR on Thursday, opening a 21-day window in which to get him back on the active roster. With Edmonds not yet recovered from the high-ankle sprain he sustained back in Week 9 at San Francisco, he'll miss a fourth consecutive contest. In the previous three outings as the unquestioned top RB for Arizona, Conner earned at least 81 percent of snaps en route to averaging 20.3 touches for 91.3 yards from scrimmage and one touchdown per game.

Strong performance as lead back

Conner rushed 20 times for 75 yards and brought in both targets for 36 yards and a touchdown in the Cardinals' 33-22 win over the Bears on Sunday.

Analysis: Once again serving in an unquestioned lead-back role, Conner turned in a solid workmanlike performance and topped off his fantasy performance with a 23-yard touchdown reception in the latter portion of the second quarter. Conner has now handled a 20-carry workload in three of the last four games, a span during which he's also recorded multiple grabs and contributed a pair of receiving touchdowns. Conner should once again have a significant role through both the ground and air in a critical NFC…read more

Another workhorse showing

Conner ran for 62 yards and one touchdown on 21 carries while catching five passes for 37 yards on six targets against Seattle on Sunday.

Analysis: Colt McCoy starting in place of Kyler Murray (ankle) allowed the Seahawks to allocate extra resources toward slowing Conner on the ground, but the touchdown and strong pass-catching usage made it yet another strong fantasy showing for Conner overall. The Cardinals have a bye in Week 12 and Chase Edmonds (ankle) might be back not long after that, but Conner should get another three-down start against Chicago in Week 13. Conner was valuable even before Edmonds' injury, so the former Steeler could…read more

Scores once again

Conner rushed 10 times for 39 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 34-10 loss to the Panthers. He also caught three of four targets for 25 yards.

Analysis: Conner didn't approach last week's monstrous output, but he still managed to find the end zone once again. With an 11-yard rush during the fourth quarter, Conner brought his season total to 12 touchdowns, including 11 on the ground. That score helped compensate for an otherwise modest performance in which Arizona's usual second and third-string quarterbacks led the offense. The team will hope star signal-caller Kyler Murray (ankle) can return versus the Seahawks next week, but with fellow…read more

Scores three times in win

Conner carried the ball 21 times for 96 yards and two touchdowns and caught all five of his targets for 77 yards and another TD in Sunday's 34-17 win over the 49ers.

Analysis: Chase Edmonds, who has been dealing with a shoulder injury in recent weeks, tweaked his ankle early in Sunday's contest and didn't return, leaving the backfield mostly in Conner's hands. The former Steeler then showed what he can do as a No. 1 RB, finding the end zone twice in the first quarter on red-zone runs before taking a screen pass 45 yards for his third score of the day early in the third quarter. His 173 scrimmage yards were by far a season high -- in fact, they more than doubled his…read more

Scores twice in loss

Conner rushed five times for 22 yards and two touchdowns in the Cardinals' 24-21 loss to the Packers on Thursday night.

Analysis: Conner had seen double-digit carries in five straight contests prior to Thursday, but game script unexpectedly turned against the run despite the Packers' short-handed offense. Conner's red-zone role encouragingly continued as robust as ever, however, with the fifth-year veteran scoring his seventh and eighth touchdowns of the season on two- and nine-yard runs in the second half. Conner will look to get back to his usual rushing volume in a Week 9 road matchup against the 49ers a week from…read more

Finds end zone in big win

Conner carried the ball 10 times for 64 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 31-5 win over the Texans.

Analysis: While Chase Edmonds saw a bigger workload with 16 touches, it was Conner who once again hit paydirt, scampering for an 18-yard TD in the fourth quarter. The former Steeler has six rushing touchdowns over the last four games compared to Edmonds' zero scores on the season, making Conner the more valuable fantasy asset in most formats heading into a Week 8 clash with the Packers.

Leads backfield in win

Conner carried the ball 16 times for 71 yards and caught his only target for zero yards in Sunday's 37-14 win over the Browns.

Analysis: With Chase Edmonds playing through a shoulder injury and the Cards jumping out to a big early lead, Conner saw a big workload and set a new season high in rushing yards, although his TD streak ended at three games. The duo should remain in a timeshare in Week 7 against the Texans, who just got trampled by the Colts' Jonathan Taylor, but if Edmonds is healthier Conner may need another score to be worth an active roster spot in shallower fantasy formats.

Extends touchdown streak

Conner ran for 29 yards and one touchdown on 10 carries against San Francisco on Sunday.

Analysis: The Cardinals couldn't get their ground game going Sunday as Kyler Murray produced zero yards on seven attempts and Chase Edmonds (hamstring) finished with just 15 yards on six attempts, so Conner was no less efficient than the rest of the Arizona run game Sunday. He remains locked into a mid-sized role splitting the backfield with Edmonds, and with five rushing touchdowns in the last three weeks, there's reason to believe he'll continue getting the first stab at Arizona's rushing touchdown…read more

Two more TDs against Rams

Conner carried the ball 18 times for 50 yards and two touchdowns while catching both his targets for 16 yards in Sunday's 37-20 win over the Rams.

Analysis: For the second straight game, Conner punched his way into the end zone twice, with both of Sunday's scores coming from the one-yard line. Chase Edmonds piled up 120 rushing yards, however, and remains the clear top option in the Cardinals' backfield timeshare. Conner will look for more goal-line opportunities in Week 5 against the 49ers.

Finds end zone twice in win

Conner rushed 11 times for 43 yards and two touchdowns and secured his only target for 10 yards in the Cardinals' 31-19 win over the Jaguars on Sunday.

Analysis: The offseason addition had his best game as a Cardinal yet, even as his 53-yard rushing tally Week 1 against the Titans featured a season high in yardage. Conner's ability to find the end zone twice in the second half -- going in from four yards in the third quarter before adding a one-yard score in the fourth -- is what made this performance a particularly fruitful one for fantasy managers, but the fact that backfield mate Chase Edmonds saw the same number of carries remains a confounding…read more

Musters 26 rushing yards

Conner rushed eight times for 26 yards during Sunday's 34-33 win against the Vikings.

Analysis: Through two games, Conner has logged 24 touches (all carries) to fellow running back Chase Edmonds' 29 (20 runs, nine catches). However, when looking at their respective stat lines, Conner is lagging far behind Edmonds in terms of yards from scrimmage (79 versus 181). With no utility as a pass catcher to speak of yet in what's been a high-flying offense directed by Kyler Murray, Conner is playing second fiddle to Edmonds, at least in terms of fantasy. Conner nonetheless has a fair matchup…read more

Busy runner in Week 1

Conner ran for 53 yards on 16 carries at Tennessee on Sunday.

Analysis: It was a fairly heavy workload for the offseason pickup from Pittsburgh, but it was also an unusual scenario given that it was a blowout upset on the road with the Titans falling far behind early. Conner had zero targets to starter Chase Edmonds' four Sunday, so Conner would likely see less work In closer games and especially in contests where the Cardinals fall behind. Still, if the team's offense stays hot, then Conner might be able to offer occasional flex utility in some formats. The…read more

Makes debut with Arizona

Conner (toe) had two carries for one yard during Friday's preseason loss to the Chiefs.

Analysis: Fellow running back Chase Edmonds got the start and first carry of the game before Conner received the next two touches given to Cardinals RBs. Considering Edmonds is a holdover and Conner has more experience overall, the preceding breakdown of touches may be the status quo in Arizona's offense this season. Conner, a fifth-year pro, signed a one-year deal in the offseason, but he spent most of it in recovery mode due to toe surgery. Then, he missed some practices over the last week due to a…read more

Removed from COVID-19 list

Conner (toe) was removed from the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday, Darren Urban of the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner was on the list for just four days and now can return to practice, though he's reportedly been limited this summer after having toe surgery in the offseason. While an appearance in one of the Cardinals' final two preseason games would help alleviate concerns, it could be tough to get a read on the extent of Conner's regular-season role before Week 1. Chase Edmonds played the first two drives in Arizona's preseason opener and took four touches for 20 yards.

Placed on COVID list

Conner has been added to the reserve/COVID-19 list after being deemed a high-risk close contact, NFL reporter Aaron Wilson reports.

Analysis: Conner, who had been dealing with a toe issue, thus is a question mark for Friday's preseason game against the Cowboys. When available, Conner is expected to combine with Chase Edmonds in what the Cardinals hope will be an effective one-two backfield punch in 2021.

Held out of practice

Conner (toe) didn't participate in 11-on-11s or 7-on-7s over the weekend, Jess Root of Yahoo Sports reports.

Analysis: Conner had toe surgery at some point this offseason but reportedly participated in June OTAs. It's unclear if he's dealing with a new injury or simply being eased into practice at training camp. Either way, the Cardinals hope Conner and Chase Edmonds can form an effective tandem in the backfield this year. The depth options are lacking, to say the least, with Jonathan Ward, Eno Benjamin, Khalfani Muhammad and Tavien Feaster offering minimal NFL experience.

On track for training camp

Conner (toe) participated in OTAs in June, according to Jess Root of CardsWire.

Analysis: Conner had offseason toe surgery and was expected to be healthy at some point in June. It isn't clear if he was a full participant in OTAs, but the ability to practice in any capacity suggests he should be ready for the start of training camp in late July. Signed to a one-year, $1.75 million contract this spring, Conner will compete with Chase Edmonds for snaps and touches out of the Arizona backfield.

Signs with Arizona

Conner (toe) agreed Tuesday with the Cardinals on a one-year, $1.75 million contract, Jay Glazer of Fox Sports reports.

Analysis: Conner visited with the Cardinals on Monday and reportedly came to terms on a deal less than 24 hours later. After spending the first four years of his career in Pittsburgh, the soon-to-be 26-year-old joins an Arizona backfield where Chase Edmonds is the only other player with considerable NFL experience. Granted, the Cardinals still have plenty of time to add more bodies, particularly during the upcoming NFL Draft. Conner is still rehabbing from offseason toe surgery, but the expectation is…read more

Recovering from surgery

Conner is recovering from toe surgery but should be healthy in June, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: An unrestricted free agent, Conner is scheduled to meet with the Cardinals on Monday. He doesn't seem to have drummed up much interest otherwise, but a move to Arizona would give him a realistic shot to earn significant playing time, even if he settles for a one-year contract with minimal guarantees. Conner may end up waiting until after the 2021 NFL Draft, at which point team needs will be clearer.

Set to visit Cardinals

Conner is scheduled to visit the Cardinals, Jay Glazer of Fox Sports reports.

Analysis: Following the free-agent departure of Kenyan Drake, it's pretty clear that the Cardinals need to bolster their backfield, either through the draft or by signing an experienced option like Conner. For now, Chase Edmonds sits atop the team's running back depth chart, and if Arizona elects to bring in Conner there's a path to a decent role. The 25-year-old is coming off a 2020 campaign in which he logged 169 carries for 721 yards and six TDs to go along with 35 catches for 215 yards in 13 games…read more

Could stay in Steel City

The Steelers could try to re-sign Conner, but they won't necessarily bring him back as their starting running back, Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: Conner was the team's lead back for the final three season of his rookie contract, starting with a breakout 2018 in which he piled up 1,470 total yards and 13 touchdowns in 13 games. He sunk to 715 yards and seven TDs in 10 games the next season, before putting up 936 yards and six scores across 13 appearances in 2020. The 2017 third-round pick can become an unrestricted free agent in March, two months prior to his 26th birthday. Staying in Pittsburgh might give him his best shot at a starting…read more

Tallies 62 total yards

Conner rushed the ball nine times for 37 yards in Week 17 against the Browns. He added five receptions for 25 yards.

Analysis: Conner led the Steelers' backfield with nine carries, though the team attempted only 20 total rushes for the game. He remained involved as a receiver and has combined for 10 receptions and 70 yards across his last two games. Conner ends the regular season with 936 total yards, falling shy of 1,000 for the second consecutive campaign. He will presumably serve as the team's lead back throughout its playoff run prior to entering the offseason as a free agent.

Finds end zone in return

Conner (quadriceps) carried five times for 20 yards and a touchdown while catching all five of his targets for an additional 45 yards during Sunday's 28-24 win over the Colts.

Analysis: Returning from a one-game absence, Conner marked the occasion with a one-yard rushing touchdown in the second quarter. His carries were limited as his team trailed for the majority of the game, but he offset that by notching new season highs in catches and receiving yards. Conner has been held under 40 rushing yards in four of his last five games, but he is presumably healthy now and will look to finish the regular season on a high note in next Sunday's finale against the Browns.

Returns to full practice

Conner (quadriceps) practiced fully Wednesday, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Analysis: The full workout puts Conner -- who sat out Monday's loss to the Bengals -- on track to be available this weekend against the Colts. That said, Aditi Kinkhabwala of NFL Networkreported earlier in the week that Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said that Benny Snell would "have the opportunity to be impactful" Week 16, after he accounted for 107 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown on 21 touches versus the Bengals. If that ends up being the case, Conner could have a much lower fantasy floor…read more

Could be back Week 16

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said Conner (quadriceps) may be available for Sunday's game against the Colts, but he wouldn't guarantee that the 25-year-old would serve as Pittsburgh's lead back if he suits up, Aditi Kinkhabwala of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Though the Steelers suffered an embarrassing 27-17 loss to the 3-10-1 Bengals while Conner was sidelined Week 15, fill-in starter Benny Snell was one of the few bright spots for Pittsburgh, rushing 18 times for 84 yards and a touchdown and hauling in three of four targets for 23 yards. Per Kinkhabwala, Tomlin said Tuesday that Snell will "have the opportunity to be impactful" against the Colts, suggesting Pittsburgh could opt for a timeshare out of the backfield if Conner gains clearance to…read more

Won't play Monday

The Steelers have downgraded Conner (quadriceps) to out for Monday's game in Cincinnati.

Analysis: Conner's quad injury will force him to miss his third game in four weeks. Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that Benny Snell is the favorite to draw the start in Conner's stead, though Jaylen Samuels and Anthony McFarland also will be candidates to handle increased roles.

Expected to miss Monday's game

The Steelers are expected to downgrade Conner (quadriceps) to out for Monday's game against the Bengals, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Conner clearly wasn't himself Week 14, his first game back from a two-week absence, when he went for just 18 yards on 10 carries against Buffalo. Given the 25-year-old's injury history, the Steelers may simply be taking a cautious approach to his health while keeping an eye toward the postseason. Benny Snell is expected to start in Conner's place, while Jaylen Samuels and Anthony McFarland could also see increased roles.

Questionable for Monday

Conner (quad) is listed as questionable for Monday's game against the Bengals, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM NFL Radio reports.

Analysis: Conner was listed as a limited participant in practice for a second consecutive day Saturday, opening up the possibility the fourth-year back could be able to play against the Bengals in Monday's 8:15 p.m. ET tilt. Conner was hardly effective in the previous meeting with Cincinnati in Week 10 (13 carries for 36 yards), so fantasy managers may just want err on the side of caution, especially given the nature of the 25-year-old's injury and the timing of the Steelers' Week 15 kickoff.

Returns to practice

Conner (quad) returned to practice Friday in a limited fashion, Brian Batko of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: The activity is a step in the right direction for the Steelers' lead back, after he sat out Thursday's practice. Saturday's injury report will reveal whether Conner approaches Monday's game against the Bengals with an injury designation. If Conner ends up sitting out Week 15, Benny Snell and Jaylen Samuels would be the next men up for touches and snaps out of the Pittsburgh backfield.

DNP on Thursday

Conner (quad) didn't practice Thursday, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Analysis: The running back still has two chances to return to practice this week, but his status must be closely monitored as Monday night's game against the Bengals approaches. If he's out or limited in Week 15, Benny Snell and Jaylen Samuels would be in line to head the Steelers' backfield versus 2-10-1 Cincinnati.

Tending to quad issue

Coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that Conner is dealing with a quadriceps injury, Teresa Varley of Steelers.com reports.

Analysis: A bout with COVID-19 forced Conner to sit out Weeks 12 and 13, and in his return to action this past Sunday in Buffalo he was second among Steelers running backs in offensive snap share (40 percent). Top honors went to Jaylen Samuels (47 percent), while Benny Snell (five percent) brought up the rear. Perhaps the combination of the lingering effects of the illness along with the quad issue led to a poor showing for Conner, who eked out just 18 yards on his 10 carries and wasn't targeted. Tomlin…read more

Posts 1.8 YPC in ugly loss Sunday

Conner (reserve/COVID-19) returned to action and rushed 10 times for 18 yards in Sunday's 26-15 loss to the Bills.

Analysis: Conner was forced to miss the Steelers' last two contests, but he was finally cleared to resume team activities earlier this week. However, his fantasy managers may not have noticed that their running back returned to the field based on his anemic production. The Bills are no slouch on defense, so the rotten outing can be explained by a tough matchup and the extended layoff. Conner still saw the majority of backfield touches for Pittsburgh and will look to rebound against a Bengals run defense…read more

Activated from COVID-19 list

The Steelers activated Conner (illness) from the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday.

Analysis: With that, Conner is now on track to play Sunday against the Bills after missing Pittsburgh's previous two games. His return to action will be a welcome one after Washington held the Pittsburgh rushing attack to 21 yards on 14 carries Week 13 en route to upsetting the previously unbeaten Steelers.

Expected back Week 14

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that he's optimistic Conner will be ready to return from the reserve/COVID-19 list prior to the team's Week 14 game against the Bills, Aditi Kinkhabwala of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Tomlin's comments suggest that Conner has been coming along well in his recovery since he tested positive for the coronavirus Nov. 28. Conner is first eligible to return from the list Wednesday, so if he clears all health-related protocols, the running back could be able to participate in the Steelers' first Week 14 practice. If he's ultimately active for the matchup with Buffalo, Conner would likely step back in as the Steelers' top running back after fill-in starter Benny Snell (eight carries…read more

Unlikely to return Monday

The Steelers can activate Conner (illness) from the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday, but he isn't expected to play in Monday's game against Washington, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Conner was placed on the reserve list after testing positive for COVID-19 back on Nov. 28. The move set the stage for Benny Snell to lead the Steelers backfield this past Wednesday against the Ravens, resulting in 19 touches for 93 yards from scrimmage for the second-year back. Assuming Conner remains sidelined, Snell will earn another start.

Officially placed on COVID-19 list

Conner was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list Saturday, Mark Kaboly of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: It was reported earlier Saturday Conner had tested positive for COVID-19, but the team had yet to make an official designation. This news seems to suggest the running back will miss, at minimum, Tuesday's contest against the Ravens, but it's entirely possible the game could be delayed even further after both teams added new additions to their respective COVID-19 lists.

Reportedly COVID-19 positive

Conner reportedly tested positive for COVID-19 and will go through additional tests to determine his eligibility for Tuesday's contest against the Ravens, Aditi Kinkhabwala of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: The Steelers have not officially placed on Conner on the reserve/COVID-19 list yet so there's plenty of ambiguity surrounding the situation. Additional testing will be critical for a number of reasons, including the status of Tuesday's twice-postponed game, but more information will need to be sorted out before any sort of final decisions can be made.

Pops 25-yard run on Jaguars

Conner registered 89 rushing yards on 13 carries, adding three receptions for 10 yards during Sunday's 27-3 win against Jacksonville.

Analysis: Conner broke off a 25-yard rush on his second carry of the afternoon, riding that explosive play to a season-best yards-per-carry average of 6.8. One can't get too picky given that Conner had logged fewer than 3.2 YPC in three straight contests entering Sunday, but his receiving upside remains limited. Conner showed versatility with 55 receptions and 497 receiving yards in 2018, but he has no receiving scores thus far in 2020 and has been held under 15 receiving yards in four consecutive games.…read more

Stymied by Bengals

Conner carried the ball 13 times for 36 yards in Week 10 against the Bengals. He added two receptions for 12 yards.

Analysis: Despite leading for the entirety of the game, Ben Roethlisberger threw 46 times and limited Conner's chances to make an impact. However, even when he had the ball in his hands, Conner was largely ineffective and limited to just 2.8 yards per carry. His longest rush of the day went for 16 yards, marking the third consecutive contest in which Conner has failed to gain more than 20 yards on a single play. Hampering Conner's value even further is his limited involvement in the passing game, as he…read more

Struggles in win over Cowboys

Conner carried the ball nine times for 22 yards and caught both his targets for minus-2 yards in Sunday's 24-19 win over the Cowboys.

Analysis: Against what has been one of the worst defenses in the league, Conner and the entire Steelers offense came out flat, and Pittsburgh eventually got away from its running game in the second half while Ben Roethlisberger led a comeback. Conner will look for redemption in Week 10 against another soft front seven in the Bengals.

Scores TD as team stays unbeaten

Conner registered 47 rushing yards and one touchdown on 15 carries, adding three catches for 13 yards during Sunday's 28-24 win against the Ravens.

Analysis: Conner scored rushing TDs in four consecutive appearances between Weeks 2 and 6, but he was unable to break into the end zone during Pittsburgh's preceding game against Tennessee despite fielding a season-high 23 offensive touches. The fourth-year back notched an important score in Sunday's AFC North clash, pushing the Steelers ahead 21-17 with 5:38 to go in the third quarter by way of his one-yard TD plunge. He's enjoyed a prominent offensive role of 18.3 touches per game as Pittsburgh readies…read more

Kept out of end zone

Conner carried the ball 20 times for 82 yards in Week 7 against the Titans. He added three receptions for 29 yards.

Analysis: Conner was heavily involved in the Steelers' offense early on, drawing five carries on the team's first drive. It appeared he had capped that possession with a one-yard rushing score, though it was ultimately called back due to a facemask penalty. One drive later, Conner drew four more carries but was vultured by Benny Snell for a one-yard scamper into the end zone. This game marks the first time since Week 1 that Conner did not score or top 100 yards on the ground. He'll face another stiff…read more

Tops 100 yards

Conner rushed 20 times for 101 yards and one touchdown in Week 6 against the Browns. He added one reception for one yard.

Analysis: Conner dominated work out of the backfield and topped 20 carries for the first time this season. He continued to produce with that volume, finding the end zone for the fourth consecutive game and reaching 100 yards on the ground for the third time in his last four contests. Despite the strong performance, Conner didn't provide many breakaway runs, posting double-digit yards on a carry only three times. Even so, he's proven to be the workhorse for the Steelers and should see plenty of volume…read more

Finds end zone

Conner carried the ball 15 times for 44 yards and a touchdown in Week 5 against the Eagles. He added three receptions for 19 yards.

Analysis: Conner was held in check by the stout Eagles defensive line as 25 of his 44 yards came on a single carry. However, he still found the end zone on a one-yard score early in the third quarter to help salvage his performance. Even after the relatively poor effort, Conner has 350 total yards and three touchdowns through four contests. He should remain heavily involved in the offense as the Steelers take on the Browns in Week 6.

Won't see Titans in Week 4

Conner and the Steelers will not take the field Week 4 against the Titans following additional positive COVID-19 tests within the Tennessee organization, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: The initial plan was to move the game from Sunday to either Monday or Tuesday, but with reports of additional positive tests from another Titans player and personnel member surfacing, the league ultimately decided it would be best to postpone the contest. The Steelers were originally in line for a Week 8 bye, but it remains to be seen if that will stay intact with a new Week 4 bye now on the calendar.

Racks up 149 scrimmage yards

Conner carried 18 times for 109 yards and a touchdown while catching four of five targets for 40 additional yards during Sunday's 28-21 win over the Texans.

Analysis: Conner had a rather pedestrian start to the game and watched as Anthony McFarland and Benny Snell took away 14 touches. It appears that was in an effort to keep Conner fresh, as he helped Pittsburgh control the game in the second half and scored the decisive touchdown on a 12-yard run in the fourth quarter. He now piled up 270 scrimmage yards and two touchdowns over his last two games and will look to keep up his excellent production next Sunday against the Titans.

Dominates backfield production

Conner carried 16 times for 106 yards and a touchdown while catching both his targets for an additional 15 yards in Sunday's 26-21 win over the Broncos.

Analysis: Conner dealt with an ankle injury throughout the week and was rumored to be in for a timeshare with Benny Snell Jr., but he out-touched his teammate by 14 and scored a two-yard touchdown run to get the scoring started in the first quarter. Given his productivity in the face of adversity this week, Conner figures to dominate the touches again next Sunday against the Texans. Injuries remain a concern, however, so fantasy managers will hope he doesn't feel any lingering effects heading into the…read more

May split carries with Snell

Conner is expected to split carries with Benny Snell on Sunday in the Steelers' game against the Broncos, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Though Conner was surprisingly able to avoid an injury designation heading into Week 2 after exiting with a sprained ankle in the season-opening win over the Giants, he may not reclaim the clear lead role out of the backfield that he's enjoyed for much of the past two seasons. While Conner sat out much of the Week 1 win, Snell turned heads with a 19-carry, 113-yard outing, which should earn the latter a more elevated role in Week 2. Coach Mike Tomlin hasn't specified what the distribution of…read more

Good to go for Sunday

Conner (ankle) practiced in full Friday and doesn't have a designation for Sunday's game against the Broncos, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Conner emerged from the Steelers' Week 1 win against the Giants with a mild ankle sprain, and while the issue sidelined him at Wednesday's session, he proceeded to be listed as a full participant both Thursday and Friday. He should serve as the team's top running back this weekend, but coach Mike Tomlin may be convinced to take some of the strain off Conner to preserve him for the long term. As a result, Benny Snell and Jaylen Samuels could be candidates for increased workloads Sunday.

Puts in full practice

Conner (ankle) was a full participant in Thursday's practice, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Though Conner sustained what was believed to be a mild ankle sprain in Monday's win over the Giants, his ability to practice fully three days later still comes as something of a surprise. If Conner is able to repeat that activity level in the Steelers' final practice of the week Friday, he should be in good shape to play in Sunday's game against the Broncos. Although Conner remains the lead option in the Pittsburgh backfield when healthy and available, Ed Bouchette of The Athletic speculates…read more

Unable to practice

Conner (ankle) didn't practice Wednesday.

Analysis: For his part, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com suggests that if he had to "bet on it right now," he would guess that Conner plays Sunday against the Broncos, despite spraining his ankle in the Steelers' season-opening win over the Giants. If, however, Conner's ankle injury sidelines or limits him Week 2, Benny Snell would be next up for touches out of the Steelers' backfield, with Jaylen Samuels in reserve as the top pass-catching option out of the backfield.

Avoids high-ankle sprain

Conner is believed to have avoided a high-ankle sprain in the Steelers' 26-16 win over the Giants on Monday, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: The Steelers will send Conner in for further evaluation Tuesday, but Adam Schefter of ESPN relays that the team is "optimistic for a timely return" from the 25-year-old. Coach Mike Tomlin expressed similar positivity about Conner's situation when he met with the media Tuesday, saying the Steelers would "leave the light on" for the running back to potentially play Week 2 against the Broncos, per Mike Garafolo of NFL Network. In the event Conner is sidelined this weekend, Benny Snell would…read more

Team hoping for swift return

Conner suffered a sprained ankle in Monday's game versus the Giants but the team believes he may return quickly, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Conner will be examined Tuesday to get a full picture of the extent of his issue, but the initial diagnosis seems favorable. Benny Snell and Jaylen Samuels handled the backfield duties after Conner's early exit Monday and would be in line for extra work in Week 2 should Conner be unavailable. Before leaving, Conner finished with nine yards on six carries to go with two receptions for eight yards.

Questionable to return

Conner (ankle) is officially considered questionable to return to Monday's matchup with the Giants, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports.

Analysis: Conner had his left ankle taped up early in the second quarter but never returned. The Steelers did not officially label him questionable to return until early in the fourth quarter. He accumulated just nine yards on six carries and eight yards on two receptions prior to exiting the contest. Benny Snell and Jaylen Samuels have handled duties in the backfield since his exit, with the former seeing more success.

Injures ankle Monday

Conner had his left ankle taped early in the second quarter of Monday's game against the Giants, per Maria Taylor on the ESPN broadcast.

Analysis: Prior to his departure, Conner had six carries for nine yards and reeled in two of four targets for eight yards. As long as Conner is sidelined, Benny Snell will handle early downs while Jaylen Samuels takes on a pass-catching role out of the Steelers backfield.

Back in business

Conner (undisclosed) returned to practice Monday, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

Analysis: Conner didn't practice Saturday, but he's back Monday, which suggests his absence could have been maintenance-related or that the issue that sidelined him was minor. Either way, Conner is slated to reprise his role as the Steelers' lead back in 2020, with Jaylen Samuels, Benny Snell and Anthony McFarland jostling for backup/change-of-pace slotting.

Not practicing Saturday

Conner (undisclosed) isn't practicing Saturday, Brooke Pryor of ESPN NFL Nation reports.

Analysis: It could just be a maintenance day for Conner, who hadn't missed a practice since Pittsburgh began padded sessions. Expect an update on the reason for his absence if the running back misses any additional time.

Won't sit out 2020

Conner intends to play this upcoming season, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: With fellow cancer survivor Marcus Cannon opting out of the 2020 season for New England, there'd been some speculation about Conner doing the same in Pittsburgh. The fourth-year pro intends to play out the final year of his rookie contract however, potentially looking at a big payday next spring if he can pull off a repeat of his 2018 breakout. After missing six full games and the majority of two others last season, Conner took some time to let his body rest and then focused on a healthier…read more

Finds comfortable offseason routine

Conner has been working out five or six days per week throughout the offseason, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Conner took some time to let his body heal after an injury-plagued 2019 campaign, but it doesn't sound like any of the issues have impacted his offseason routine. He says the pandemic has been conducive to a healthy lifestyle, forcing him to eat meals at home and leaving him with plenty of time to work out. The 25-year-old enters the final season of his rookie contract as the presumed leader of the Pittsburgh backfield, though he could face some snap competition from Jaylen Samuels, Benny Snell…read more

Likely leader of committee

Conner (quadriceps) projects as the leader of a committee backfield in Pittsburgh, Ed Bouchette of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Unable to build on his 2018 breakout, Conner missed six full games plus the majority of two others in 2019, and he also noticed a significant dip in yards per carry (4.0) and a smaller dip in yards per target (6.6). Both numbers were better than what the Steelers got from Benny Snell (3.9 YPC, three catches) and Jaylen Samuels (2.7 YPC, 5.4 YPT), but now there's another body -- fourth-round pick Anthony McFarland -- entering the backfield mix after the team devoted a middle-round selection to…read more

Still viewed as starter

Steelers GM Kevin Colbert still views Conner (quadriceps) as a starting running back, Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports. "We hope James can regain it," Colbert said. "And, if he's healthy, there's no reason he shouldn't. We don't want to say we don't have a starting running back because we feel we do."

Analysis: Colbert said Conner was a disappointment in 2019 but also acknowledged that the running back was one of the top players at his position the year prior. There were still some flashes of good form last season, namely a four-week stretch from late September to late October in which Conner produced 449 total yards and five touchdowns. His season-end mark of 4.0 yards per carry fell a half-yard shy of his 2019 number, but it was still better than what Benny Snell (3.9 YPC) and Jaylen Samuels (2.7…read more

Not playing Week 17

Pittsburgh has ruled Conner (quadriceps) out for Sunday's game against the Ravens, Missi Matthews of the Steelers' official site reports.

Analysis: With Pittsburgh needing some help in Week 17 to punch its ticket to the postseason, Conner's 2019 campaign may well be over after he experienced another setback on the health front coming out of last Sunday's loss to the Jets. He'll be sidelined for the sixth time this season in the regular-season finale, likely leaving Benny Snell, Kerrith Whyte and Jaylen Samuels to take on most of the snaps and touches out of the backfield. Conner concludes the regular season with 715 yards from scrimmage…read more

Misses practice Thursday

Conner (quad) didn't practice Thursday.

Analysis: With Conner listed as a non-participant for second straight day, his status for Sunday's regular-season finale against the Ravens remains murky. If he's ruled out for the contest, Benny Snell, Jaylen Samuels and Kerrith Whyte would be in line to combine to handle the Steelers' Week 17 rushing duties.

Sidelined Wednesday

Conner (quadriceps) didn't practice Wednesday.

Analysis: More news on the running back's status will arrive Thursday, but coach Mike Tomlin previously noted that Conner's Week 17 availability "is very much in question." If Conner is limited Sunday against the Ravens or withheld from action entirely, Benny Snell, Jaylen Samuels and Kerrith Whyte would handle added work out of the Steelers' backfield.

Status up in air for season finale

Coach Mike Tomlin called Conner's (quadriceps) status for Week 17 at Baltimore "very much in question," Missi Matthews of the Steelers' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner has been unable to avoid the injury bug this season. At the moment, he's tending to a quad issue that he sustained on his final carry of Week 16, per Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com. While the results of an MRI haven't been released, Tomlin's comments aren't exactly encouraging for Conner's availability for the season finale. If he misses his sixth game of the campaign Sunday, Benny Snell Jr. and Jaylen Samuels would be in line for more prominent roles.

Gets quad checked out

Conner underwent an MRI to assess the quad injury he sustained on his final carry in Sunday's 16-10 loss to the Jets, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: For now, Conner's status for this weekend's regular-season finale against the Ravens is unclear. If he's unable to go or limited, Benny Snell, Jaylen Samuels and Kerrith Whyte would handle the Steelers' Week 17 backfield duties.

Exits game with thigh injury

Conner was forced of Sunday's game against the Jets with a thigh injury.

Analysis: Prior to his exit from the contest, Conner carried six times for 32 yards. In his absence, Benny Snell, Jaylen Samuels and Kerrith Whyte are on hand to handle the Steelers' backfield duties.

Resumes lead back role

Conner (shoulder) rushed eight times for 42 yards and caught four passes (five targets) for nine yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 17-10 loss to the Bills.

Analysis: Eight rushes may suggest that the team was taking it easy on their lead back in his first week back in action, but those eight carries led the backfield by a decent margin (the next-highest total was two carries). The Steelers simply could not do much against Buffalo's tough defense, and this resulted in few opportunities for all of the team's skill players. Expect Conner to get more involved in an easier matchup against the Jets on Sunday.

Returns to action Sunday night

Conner (shoulder) is listed as active for Sunday night's game against the Bills, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Conner, who began the 2019 season as the Steelers' clear lead back, will thus see his first game action since Week 11, though it is unclear how large of a workload he'll see in his return to the team's backfield. With that in mind, look for Benny Snell and Jaylen Samuels -- both of whom have been filling in for Conner -- to remain in the mix in Week 15. The potential committee arrangement makes all three backs hit-or-miss fantasy options Sunday night.

Likely to share load in Week 15

Conner (shoulder), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Bills but is expected to play, will likely split snaps and touches with Jaylen Samuels and Benny Snell in his return to the lineup, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Though Conner logged full practices Wednesday through Friday, the Steelers are apparently inclined to ease him back into the mix after he sat out five of the team's last six games due to an AC joint sprain in his right shoulder. Snell has emerged as the lead option on the ground of late, but he'll likely notice at least a slight downturn in his carry count with Conner back in the fold after toting the ball no fewer than 16 times in any of the past three weeks. Samuels, meanwhile, profiles as…read more

Expected to play Sunday

Conner (shoulder), who is listed as questionable on the official injury report for Sunday's game against the Bills, is expected to play, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Conner was a full participant in practices Wednesday through Friday, so this report aligns with the prevailing belief that he'll put an end to his three-game absence. However, fantasy managers will want to double check his status prior to the 8:20 p.m. ET kickoff. Because of the time he's missed lately, Conner could be eased back into the mix with a more limited snap count rather than filling a high-volume lead role like he did in the Steelers' first seven games.

Questionable, despite full practice

Conner (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Bills, Missi Matthews of the Steelers' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner was a full participant in practices Wednesday through Friday, but he'll take an injury designation into the weekend nonetheless after the AC joint sprain in his right shoulder sidelined him for all but one of the Steelers' previous six games. Per Mike Garafolo of NFL Network, Conner previously told teammates that he believes he'll need surgery at some point to address the issue, but the running back looks like he'll attempt to play through the injury for now. Even if Conner is cleared to…read more

Logs full practice

Conner (shoulder) was listed as a full practice participant Wednesday.

Analysis: Coach Mike Tomlin has yet to confirm Conner will put an end to a three-game absence Sunday against the Bills, but things seem to be trending in that direction based on the running back's lack of limitations for the first practice of Week 15. If Conner is indeed back in the mix this weekend, it's unclear if he would immediately step into a clear No. 1 role out of the backfield, as Benny Snell and Kerrith Whyte have both had their moments over the past three weeks. A further unknown in the…read more

In line to practice this week

Conner (shoulder) is expected to practice this week, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: The proclamation from coach Mike Tomlin isn't a surprise, as Conner has been listed as a limited participant on five consecutive injury reports. Still, the running back has appeared in just one of the Steelers' last six games (Week 11). Assuming he makes it all the way back for Sunday's contest against the Bills, he should retake the No. 1 role in Pittsburgh's backfield.

Expected back Week 15

Conner (shoulder), who has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Cardinals, is expected to return to action Week 15 versus the Bills, Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Conner will be sidelined for the fifth time in six games due to the sprained AC joint in his right shoulder, paving the way for Benny Snell to carry the load on the ground for the Steelers, while Jaylen Samuels handles most of the passing-down work. Though it appears Conner may be ready to end his streak of absences Week 15, Garafolo notes that the running back previously has told teammates that he didn't think he would be able to play through the injury without getting surgery first. With that…read more

Missing another game Sunday

Conner (shoulder) has been ruled out for Sunday's contest in Arizona, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner's prediction from Thursday has come to pass, meaning he'll miss his fifth game in the past six weeks. While he continues to recover from an AC joint injury in his right shoulder, the Steelers will turn to Benny Snell and Jaylen Samuels out of the backfield.

Says he won't play Sunday

Conner (shoulder) said Thursday that he won't play Sunday against the Cardinals, Missi Matthews of the Steelers' official site reports.

Analysis: Per the report, Conner, who last suited up Week 11, has been taking scout team reps this week and will thus look toward a possible return to action Week 15 against the Bills. The running back approached Week 13 action with an official doubtful tag, so it's possible that could be the case again this week, but he can safely be removed from Week 14 fantasy consideration. In his anticipated ongoing absence, Benny Snell is in line to continue to head the Steelers' backfield Sunday, while added…read more

Limited practice Wednesday

Conner (shoulder) was limited at practice Wednesday.

Analysis: Conner, who last suited up Week 11, is making progress, but his status for Sunday's game against the Cardinals remains uncertain. If he's limited or out this weekend, added snaps would be available for Benny Snell, who headed the team's backfield the last two games. Extra work would also be available for Jaylen Samuels and Kerrith Whyte, to lesser degrees.

Considered questionable

Coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that Conner (shoulder) is "questionable as we stand here today" for Sunday's game at Arizona, Brian Batko of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: Tomlin indicated Conner was improving but couldn't say if or how much he'd be able to practice this week. The 24-year-old finished last week with a pair of limited practices before being listed as doubtful, so he should be participating in some capacity this week if he truly is improving. Benny Snell rushed 16 times for 63 yards and one touchdown in Sunday's win over the Browns, and he figures to again work as the early-down back should Conner be unable to return Week 14, with Jaylen Samuels in…read more

Inactive Sunday

Conner (shoulder) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Browns.

Analysis: With Conner still sidelined, Benny Snell profiles as the team's lead back in Week 13 after rushing 21 times for 98 yards in last weekend's 16-10 win over the Bengals. Meanwhile, Jaylen Samuels should see his share of work Sunday as a pass catcher out of the Steelers' backfield. Additionally, Kerrith Whyte and Trey Edmunds could also factor into the team's Conner replacement plan against Cleveland.

Doubtful for Week 13

Pittsburgh lists Conner (shoulder) as doubtful for Sunday's game against Cleveland, Missi Matthews of the Steelers' official site reports.

Analysis: Conner is trending toward his fourth absence of the season and his second in a row after he was unable to practice in anything more than a limited capacity this week. Assuming Conner is ultimately included among the Steelers' seven inactive players Sunday, Benny Snell would profile as the team's lead option on the ground after carrying 21 times for 98 yards in the Week 12 win over the Bengals. Pass-catching specialist Jaylen Samuels and depth options Trey Edmunds and Kerrith Whyte could also…read more

Returns to practice

Conner (shoulder) returned to a limited practice Thursday, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: After logging a missed practice Wednesday, this is a positive step for the running back, who last suited up in Week 11. We should know more about his status for Sunday's game against the Browns no later than Friday, once the Steelers submit their final Week 13 injury report.

Misses practice Wednesday

Conner (shoulder) didn't practice Wednesday.

Analysis: At this stage, Conner looks iffy for Sunday's game against the Browns. If he ends up missing the contest, Benny Snell would presumably be in line to head the Steelers' Week 13 rushing attack, with Jaylen Samuels and Kerrith Whyte on hand to work in complementary roles.

Questionable for Week 13

Conner (shoulder) -- who sat out Week 12 action -- remains iffy for this Sunday's game against the Browns, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

Analysis: The report suggests that the Steelers seem more hopeful about the Week 13 status of top wideout JuJu Smith-Schuster (concussion/knee). Additionally, the team may be inclined to err on the side of caution with Conner, considering the emergence of rookie Benny Snell, who logged 21 carries for 98 yards in this past Sunday's 16-10 win over the Bengals.

Sidelined Week 12

Conner (shoulder) has been ruled out for Sunday's game in Cincinnati, Brian Batko of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: Conner was knocked out of the Steelers' Week 11 loss at Cleveland after aggravating the AC joint injury in his right shoulder, which kept him sidelined at practice this week. While he takes a seat for the third time in four contests, some combination of Jaylen Samuels, Benny Snell and Trey Edmunds will handle the reps out of the backfield.

Misses another practice

Conner (shoulder) missed practice again Thursday, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: As did JuJu Smith-Schuster (concussion/knee), with the duo increasingly likely to miss Sunday's game against the Bengals. If Conner ends up missing the contest, Jaylen Samuels and Trey Edmunds would be next in line for the Steelers' Week 12 carries, with Benny Snell and Kerrith Whyte candidates to work in reserve roles.

Misses practice Wednesday

Conner (shoulder) didn't practice Wednesday, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Analysis: At this stage, Conner is looking iffy for Sunday's game against the Bengals. If he's forced to sit out the contest, Jaylen Samuels and Trey Edmunds would be next in line for touches in Pittsburgh's backfield touches, with Benny Snell and Kerrith Whyte candidates to work in reserve.

Iffy for Sunday

Adam Schefter of ESPN suggests that it "would be a mild upset" if Conner (shoulder) was available to play Sunday versus the Bengals.

Analysis: In his return from a two-game absence for a Thursday night loss to the Browns in Week 11, Conner aggravated an AC joint injury in his right shoulder, which limited him to just 13 offensive snaps before he was pulled from the contest. If he's unable to suit up this weekend, added backfield work would be on tap for Jaylen Samuels, Trey Edmunds and Benny Snell.

Status in limbo

Conner's status is "up in the air" for Sunday's game at Cincinnati due to his shoulder injury, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: In his return last Thursday at Cleveland from a two-game absence, Conner aggravated the AC joint injury in his right shoulder, containing him to just 13 of 74 offensive snaps. According to Pelissero, Conner's injury isn't worse than it was previously, but his upcoming availability will depend on how he feels. The Steelers will take the practice field Wednesday, at which point Conner's health should become clearer.

Struggles before exiting early

Conner ran for 10 yards on five carries and caught one of two targets for six yards Thursday in Pittsburgh's 21-7 loss to Cleveland before departing in the first half after aggravating a right shoulder injury.

Analysis: Returning after missing the last two games with an AC joint sprain in his shoulder, Conner struggled to find room to run, with seven of his 10 yards coming on one carry. He re-injured the shoulder in the second quarter and was initially labeled questionable to return before being ruled out for the remainder of the contest. With 10 days before Pittsburgh's next outing Week 12 versus the Bengals, fantasy owners will need to take a wait-and-see approach with regard to Conner's availability for…read more

Exits Thursday's game

Conner was removed from Thursday's game against the Browns to be evaluated for a shoulder injury.

Analysis: The 24-year-old missed the previous two games with an AC joint sprain in his right shoulder but practiced fully this week, though he appears to have aggravated the injury during the first half Thursday. Conner was initially questionable to return but has since been ruled out. Jaylen Samuels and Trey Edmunds should handle backfield work for the Steelers in his absence.

Cleared to play Thursday

Conner (shoulder) doesn't carry an injury designation into Thursday's game against the Browns.

Analysis: Conner is thus slated to see his first game action since Week 8 and should head the Steelers' ground game this weekend. Meanwhile, Jaylen Samuels is in line to work in a complementary pass-catching role, leaving Trey Edmunds and/or Tony Brooks-James as the remaining depth options in the team's backfield.

Practices fully again Tuesday

Conner (shoulder) practiced in full Tuesday, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports. "I'm making a lot of progress and I think I'll be good to go," Conner said. "I can't make any guarantees, but as of right now I am feeling very good and things are very confident for me playing on Thursday (at Cleveland)."

Analysis: Listed as a full participant on the Steelers' first two Week 11 injury reports, Conner is trending toward his first game action since Week 8. While the team practiced indoors Tuesday, he indicated to Omar Ruiz of NFL Network that the session was more of a walk-through than a true practice. As a result, Conner's status on Wednesday's report will give a better indication of his chances to return Thursday. A healthy Conner should take on lead back duties with Jaylen Samuels serving in a secondary…read more

Listed as full participant Monday

Connor (shoulder) was listed as a full participant on Monday's estimated injury report, Brian Batko of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: Conner made just one appearance at practice last week before being ruled out for a second straight game, the result of a separated right shoulder. It appears the running back has made the requisite progress in his recovery, but his status still bears watching when the Steelers take the practice field before Thursday's game at Cleveland. If he returns to action Week 11, Conner likely will push Trey Edmunds back to a depth role with Jaylen Samuels acting as the primary change-of-pace option.

Trending toward playing Thursday

The Steelers are optimistic Conner (shoulder) will be available to play in Thursday's game in Cleveland, Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: Conner's separated right shoulder has prevented him from playing in the Steelers' last two games, but the team believes that he'll be available in some capacity in Week 11 if he can avoid any setbacks on the health front within the next few days. Given the quick turnaround for the matchup with the Browns, Conner won't have much time in practice to prove his health, so he could be subject to a restricted workload if he gains clearance to play. His availability in any capacity would still be a…read more

Out of commission Sunday

Conner (shoulder) has been ruled out for Sunday's game versus the Rams, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Analysis: Unable to practice due to the AC joint injury in his left shoulder, Conner will miss his second game in a row as a result. With Benny Snell (knee) also sidelined, the Steelers' backfield will be powered by Jaylen Samuels and Trey Edmunds this weekend.

Unlikely to play Sunday

Conner (shoulder) isn't slated to suit up for Sunday's game versus the Rams, Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: Conner practiced in a limited capacity Wednesday, marking his first appearance on the field since Oct. 26. Having said that -- and despite optimism from coach Mike Tomlin -- it appears the Steelers will be without Conner for a second straight game. If the preceding comes to pass, the backfield could be the sole domain of Jaylen Samuels, as Benny Snell (knee) won't return this weekend and Trey Edmunds missed Wednesday's session due to a rib injury.

Returns to limited practice

Conner (shoulder) practiced in a limited fashion Wednesday, Brian Batko of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: Meanwhile, fellow running back Trey Edmunds (ribs) didn't practice Wednesday. Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette previously relayed that coach Mike Tomlin is optimistic that Conner -- who didn't practice at all last week -- has a chance to play Sunday against the Rams, but that outcome can't yet be considered a lock at this stage.

Could be back Week 10

Coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that he's "optimistic" Conner (shoulder) will be ready to play Week 10 against the Rams, Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: Per Missi Matthews of the Steelers' official site, Tomlin noted that Conner would remain limited in the early portion of the team's practice schedule this week, but the coach expects the running back will be able to ramp things up as Sunday's game approaches. If Conner incurs no setbacks with his sprained right shoulder during practice, he could be ready to step back into his normal lead role out of the backfield right away after a one-game absence. Jaylen Samuels and Trey Edmunds (ribs) split…read more

Officially inactive

Conner (shoulder) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Colts.

Analysis: With Conner out as expected, Jaylen Samuels is in line to serve as the Steelers' top running back Sunday, while Trey Edmunds is on hand to work as the team's No. 2 backfield option in Week 9.

Not slated to play Sunday

Conner (shoulder) is not in line to play Sunday against the Colts, Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: Conner's status will become official once the Steelers release their Week 9 inactives, but in his anticipated absence, Jaylen Samuels is slated to head the team's backfield Sunday, with Trey Edmunds on hand to serve as the No. 2 option.

Not expected to suit up Sunday

Conner (shoulder) isn't expected to play Sunday against the Colts, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Conner was listed as doubtful after not practicing this week so it will be no surprise if he doesn't suit up, but Schefter more worryingly indicated his availability for Week 10 against the Rams is also in question. Jaylen Samuels should operate as the Steelers' top running back Sunday, while Trey Edmunds is expected to serve as the No. 2 option.

Unlikely to play Week 9

Conner (shoulder) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Colts, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Conner wasn't able to practice at any point this week after suffering an AC joint injury to his right shoulder in the Steelers' Monday night win over the Dolphins. Unless he unexpectedly makes significant progress leading up to Sunday's 1 p.m. ET kickoff, Conner looks set to be sidelined for the first time all season. Backup Jaylen Samuels should step in for Conner as the starting running back and could be looking at a huge snap share with the third option on the depth chart, Benny Snell…read more