Pittsburgh — The Pittsburgh Steelers are hurting going into another road game against the Cincinnati Bengals where they will have to contend for their postseason life. The Steelers are dealing with five serious ailments as they prepare for a battle to prolong their season. While some are making good progress, others may need to be assessed further this week as they get ready for the journey to Cincinnati.
Most importantly, Minkah Fitzpatrick, the top safety, is officially out of the Bengals game due to a knee injury. After Mike Tomlin provided the report, the already harsh break took on even greater significance when the NFL declared that Domatnae Kazee, the other starting safety for the Steelers, would be suspended for the rest of the season. Trenton Thompson is questionable for this week due to a stinger, which makes matters more dangerous for the Steelers, who are already without Keanu Neal due to an ailing hamstring that put him on injured reserve, according to head coach Mike Tomlin. He played the entire game despite being hindered by the injury he sustained against the Colts.
Cameron Heyward, a defensive lineman, is also under the concussion protocol. The NFL and Steelers medical staff will decide if Heyward is fit to train this week and play against the Bengals. After the Colts game ended, Heyward was added to the protocol. For the Steelers, there was more good news as well. After missing the previous five weeks due to an ankle injury sustained in late November, defensive back Elijah Riley “has the potential to be available” this week to assist offset their losses at safety.
In addition, the Steelers are giving quarterback Kenny Pickett every opportunity to recover from the ankle injury that has held him out of the last two games. Tomlin stated that he has been recovering nicely and will practice this week, albeit in a limited capacity. For the most up-to-date information, exclusive interviews, movie analyses, and much more, be sure to bookmark All Steelers!