Misfortune Strikes Former Steelers Running Backs
It was a challenging week for former Pittsburgh Steelers running backs, as both Najee Harris and James Conner faced significant injuries during their respective Week 3 games.
Najee Harris’s Injury Woes
Najee Harris, a first-round pick from the Steelers, was the first to go down. In the matchup between the Los Angeles Chargers and the Denver Broncos, Harris suffered a non-contact injury that led to his early exit from the game. Initial observations suggest the running back may have torn his Achilles, although the Chargers have officially categorized the injury as an ankle issue. The severity of the injury raises concerns about his availability for the remainder of the season.
James Conner’s Troubling Situation
Not long after Harris’s misfortune, James Conner, who was selected in the third round by the Steelers and now plays for the Arizona Cardinals, encountered his own setback. In the second half of the Cardinals’ game against the San Francisco 49ers, Conner sustained an ankle injury that required him to be carted off the field. Surrounded by concerned teammates, the circumstances surrounding his injury hinted at a potentially season-ending situation.
A detailed analysis of Conner’s injury reveals that his right ankle became caught while his body twisted, creating significant stress on his knee. The nature of the injury suggests possible damage to the MCL and meniscus, while the flexed position of his knee might spare the ACL. Nevertheless, the full extent of the injuries will require further evaluation as the team looks ahead.
Both Harris and Conner’s injuries underscore the harsh realities faced by professional athletes, particularly those with roots in Pittsburgh, as they navigate the challenges of the NFL season.
