The injury status of James Conner was upgraded Friday, providing optimism the Pittsburgh Steelers running back will be able to play during Monday’s game at the Cincinnati Bengals.
Conner, who is dealing with a quadriceps injury, was listed as a limited practice participant Friday on the Steelers’ league-mandated injury report. He did not practice at all Thursday.
Veteran cornerback Joe Haden practiced fully for the second consecutive day, a strong indication he has progressed through NFL concussion protocol. Barring a setback, Haden is on track to make his return to the Steelers’ lineup Monday after missing this past week’s game at the Buffalo Bills.
Kevin Dotson sat out Friday’s practice, though, a signal he won’t be ready to make his third start of the season. The rookie suffered a shoulder injury during the loss to the Bills after replacing starting left guard Matt Feiler. With Feiler (pectoral) on injured reserve, the Steelers would likely turn to J.C. Hassenauer to make his third career start but first at guard.
Veteran special-teamer Sean Davis returned to practice Friday after missing Thursday’s session because of illness.
Because of the Monday game, the Steelers had a “bonus” practice this week. They are scheduled for a full practice Saturday.
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