The Greatest NFL Starting Job Thefts of All Time

GLENDALE, AZ - JANUARY 18: (2nd left) Offensive Coordinator Todd Haley of the Arizona Cardinals and (M) head coach Ken Whisenhunt talks with (R) quarterback Kurt Warner #13 as (L) quarterback Matt Leinart #7 stands behind and watches against the Philadelphia Eagles during the NFC championship game on January 18, 2009 at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) /

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PITTSBURGH, PA – OCTOBER 28: James Conner #30 of the Pittsburgh Steelers stretches past Myles Garrett #95 of the Cleveland Browns for a 12 yard touchdown during the third quarter in the game at Heinz Field on October 28, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images) /

Pittsburgh Steelers: James Conner takes over for Le’Veon Bell

For some this might seem a bit premature but given how James Conner continues to play, it’s hard to ignore at this point. The former 3rd round pick was expected to be the backup to Bell. Nothing more. Then the Pro Bowler elected to hold out for the 2018 season due to his contract dispute with the team and has been in a standoff ever since.

This forced the Steelers to elevate Conner to the starting job. He hasn’t looked back. In just nine games he already has 11 touchdowns and 1,158 yards from scrimmage. That first number is tied for the best Bell has ever done in his career and there are still seven games left to play. Ironically, that fact is going to impact Bell’s negotiating position not only with the Steelers but every team across the NFL.

Not that Conner cares. He’s the man now.

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