Pitt running back James Conner dealing with cancer

PITTSBURGH (AP) Pittsburgh junior running back James Conner has been diagnosed with cancer and will begin treatment immediately.

The 2014 ACC Player of the Year said Friday he received the diagnosis of stage 2 Hodgkin lymphoma on Thanksgiving and has tumors in his neck and chest. He will begin chemotherapy next week. Treatment will last about six months.

Conner tore a ligament in his right knee in the 2015 season opener against Youngstown State. He had been contemplating returning for his senior season or turning pro. Those plans are put on hold while he focuses on his health.

Conner said he was at a crossroads while trying to decide whether to come back. He calls his diagnosis a blessing in disguise and said he plans to play for Pitt when he's healthy.