James Conner Expected to Miss Sunday's Game Against Rams With Shoulder Issue

Earlier in the week, there was optimism that Pittsburgh Steelers running back James Conner would return on Sunday against the Los Angeles Rams.

However, according to Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Conner is not expected to play against the Rams because of a shoulder injury he suffered two weeks ago against the Miami Dolphins.

With Conner apparently out, the starting duties will go to Jaylen Samuels, who totaled 83 yards between the run and pass game against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 9.

Trey Edmunds also had 12 carries for 73 yards last week, giving the Steelers a solid running back duo in place of Conner.

Over seven games this season, Conner has 380 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 97 carries, including 145 rushing yards and a touchdown against the Dolphins in Week 8.

Conner's absence was notable against the Colts, with the offense becoming stagnant in the second half especially. Head coach Mike Tomlin has to hope Samuels and Edmunds do the job once again, albeit consistently throughout four quarters. That'll be easier said than done.