As Steelers' All-Pro RB waits, 2nd-year back James Conner could start Sunday

As All-Pro running back Le'Veon Bell sat out training camp because of a contract dispute, Erie native James Conner moved into a more prominent role with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

He has slid into the No. 1 spot at running back, and if Bell does not report to the team this week, it's possible that Conner will be the Steelers' primary back when they take the field against the Cleveland Browns in Sunday's season opener.

Conner, a former McDowell High School star and the University of Pittsburgh All-American, had mixed results as a rookie in 2017. He rushed 32 times for 144 yards for an average of 4.5 yards per carry. However, he saw limited playing time, did not have a pass reception and ended the regular season two weeks early with a knee injury.

Conner worked hard on conditioning and nutrition during the offseason and returned to the Steelers as a sleeker, quicker running back. He has shown flashes of big-play skill in the preseason, including a 26-yard touchdown run against the Green Bay Packers.

If Bell does report in time for the opener in Cleveland, Conner is positioned to be the primary backup and could see more playing time than last season. Conner also could position himself as the heir apparent in the Steelers' backfield if Bell should end up with another team in 2019.