Pitt's James Conner, cancer survivor, declares for NFL draft
Pitt running back James Conner announced Saturday that he's declaring for the 2017 NFL Draft.
"Blessed to have been given the opportunity to play at this great university," Conner wrote on Twitter. He added, "Thank you to my family, my friends, and everyone who made this possible. I will be declaring for the 2017 NFL Draft."
Conner recorded 1,060 yards on 208 carries for 16 touchdowns this season, and will play in one more game for the Panthers: the Pinstripe Bowl against Northwestern.
"James has expressed to me how he wants to end his career on a high note with his teammates and get that ninth win," coach Pat Narduzzi said in a statement.
The junior was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma in November 2015 while recovering from a knee injury, and was declared cancer-free in May 2016.
Conner amassed over 3,700 yards and 52 touchdowns over his career at Pitt.