Ourlads' Profile:
2017 Guide: What Ourlads' NFL Scouting Services said about JAMES CONNER: Pittsburgh, 6014 233 4.65. Junior entry from Erie, PA. Three-year starter who concluded his career as the all-time ACC leader in both touchdowns (56) and rushing touchdowns (52). Second all-time at Pittsburgh with 3733 rushing yards. The physical and agile downhill thumper uses his off hand as a weapon to ward off defenders trying to tackle him. A violent runner who is dangerous in the open field because of the breakaway external force he generates due to his size. Can change direction with little effort. Can shake a defender in the open field. Has tight end type hands when he’s out on routes. Strong and dependable. Runs crisp routes and will catch the ball with defenders draped all over him. Lowers his pads in short yardage and pushes his way through contact. He is late to see holes and creases in the line at times. Won’t create much on his own as he approaches the line. Struggles to break tackles close to the line of scrimmage unlike when he gets rolling downhill. Needs to improve his pass protection. Burst onto the scene in 2014 as a sophomore when he rushed for 1765 yards and 26 touchdowns, earning All-America honors. In 2015 he tore his MCL early in the season and was soon after diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma. Was declared cancer free in May of 2016 and fought his way back into the starting lineup for week one. His versatile skills and tools can be used in a variety of ways. As long as his medicals turn out fine, he is going to be sought after by almost everyone that is looking for a running back. 2016 stats: 1092 yds, 5.0 ypc, 16 TD, 21 rec, 302 yds, 14.3 ypr, 4 TD. OSR:19/30. Fifth/ sixth round. (A-31 1/4, H-9 7/8, BP-20, SS-DNP).