The Steelers activated running back James Conner from the Reserve/COVID-19 List and signed defensive end Cassius Marsh from the Indianapolis Colts practice squad. In addition, linebacker Ulysees Gilbert III will practice on Wednesday, Dec. 9, but remains on the Reserve/Injured List.
Conner, who was placed on the Reserve/COVID-19 List on Nov. 28, has been what Coach Mike Tomlin referred to as the ‘bell cow’ for the running game this year. He has 145 carries for 645 yards, a 4.4-yard average, with five touchdowns in10 games. He also has 25 receptions for 145 yards. Conner missed the Steelers last two games, against the Baltimore Ravens and Washington Football Team.
Marsh was on the Colts practice squad but was activated during the season as a COVID-19 replacement. He has played in 91 games, and has 14 sacks, 25 tackles for a loss, four forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. He was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the fourth round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Marsh has started nine games during his NFL career and is now with his seventh team including the Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars (2020), Arizona Cardinals (2019), San Francisco 49ers (2017-18), New England Patriots (2017) and Seattle Seahawks (2014-16).
Gilbert, who played in two games this season, was placed on the Reserve/Injured List on Nov. 4 with a back injury. The team has 21 days to activate him or he must remain on the Reserve/Injured List all season.
