James Conner "Most Excited" About Rosie Nix Return; Reflects on Ed Block Courage Award

James Conner was voted the Pittsburgh Steelers' recipient of the Ed Block Courage Award. A moment the running back says was "special."

The Ed Block Courage Award is given to one member of each NFL team that displays the commitment to the principles of sportsmanship and courage. This year, James Conner received the award, voted on by his . teammates.

"It was awesome," Conner said. "The best part about it is that it's voted by my teammates so that makes it special. Being recognized, I'm thankful for the organization for giving me the opportunity."

Conner, like the rest of the Steelers' locker room, is focused on Monday night and the Miami Dolphins. The 2-4 Steelers are fight each week to keep their season alive, but according to Conner, there's a long season ahead.

"We have a lot of football left," Conner said. "We have a great opportunity on Monday night. Our defense is playing great, we just got to pick it up all around. We've got a great opportunity on Monday night so that's what we're focused on."

The Steelers offense will receive a boost this week, getting quarterback Mason Rudolph back after missing Week 6 with a concussion. Devlin Hodges kept Pittsburgh's season a live with a win in Los Angeles, but the team is excited to have Rudolph back.

"Happy to have him back," Conner said. "First and foremost, happy he's healthy. Aside from being back on the field, good thing he's healthy and out of protocol."

Rudolph isn't who Conner is most excited to have back, though. Fullback Rosie Nix has missed the last five games with a knee injury. He returned to practice this week, saying he's "ready to put my hand in the pile and turn this thing around." 

"That's who I'm most excited about," Conner said. "A Pro Bowl fullback. You lead the way, he goes head first into people, man, I need that. I'm just happy to have him back."

The Steelers are preparing to take on the Dolphins on Monday night. Winless Miami will travel to Heinz Field with Ryan Fitzpatrick returning to starting quarterback.