Advertisement

Pitt RB James Conner declares for the NFL draft

James Conner is returning to the sideline for Pitt after a battle with cancer. (Getty)
James Conner returned to the sideline for Pitt after a battle with cancer. (Getty)

Pittsburgh running back James Conner announced via Twitter on Saturday that he intends to enter the 2017 NFL draft.

“I don’t know if mere words can adequately express how I feel about James Conner,” Pitt coach Pat Narduzzi said in a statement. “His strength, his courage and his kindness have impacted all of us beyond measure. I’m forever grateful for the opportunity to be part of his life these past two years.

“James and I have had many conversations about his dreams and aspirations, both in football and life. We know he will continue to make us proud as he takes this next step to the NFL.”

[Follow Dr. Saturday on social media: Twitter | Facebook | Tumblr]

Conner was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma in the offseason and underwent 12 sessions of chemotherapy before announcing in May he was cancer-free. During his treatments, Conner continued to work out with the Panthers and became an inspirational figure throughout the sports world. Conner was awarded the Disney Spirit Award on Thursday.

Conner returned to the Panthers this season to rush for 1,060 yards, 16 touchdowns, and a career-best 20 receptions for 299 yards and four scores.

– – – – – – –

Graham Watson is the editor of Dr. Saturday on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email her at dr.saturday@ymail.com or follow her on Twitter!