Former Pitt standout James Conner confident in first training camp with Pittsburgh Steelers

Former Pitt star James Conner is officially in his first NFL training camp with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Conner, who will be a popular media target in training camp, talked a little about making the jump to the pros.

One thing he's sure of is that he's capable of playing in the league. Conner acknowledged his entire game needs to improve but that's been something that's happened his whole life. He's met every challenge so far.

"I believe in myself and my ability to overcome odds. I have since high school," he said. "The game speed’s faster, the people get better, but I got better. I know I can play."

Don't misread that quote. Conner is planning to work plenty hard and knows he needs to improve:

"It’s just surreal, man, to finally be in NFL training camp, trying to make the team," said Conner, a former McDowell High School and University of Pittsburgh standout who became a third-round pick of the Steelers in April. "I’m just gonna do my best to soak it all in and work hard and try and be successful in every aspect."

...

Asked where he needs to get better, he said, "In every category."

"My speed, my strength, everything," he added. "You’re never good enough."

Conner was underrated when he came to Pitt and became a star. This situation is a little different since people expect him to be a solid contributor and, eventually, become a starter. But given how hard Conner worked at Pitt, it would almost be a surprise if he wasn't successful in the NFL. Kid just looks ready.

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