DeShon Elliott injury update: Steelers DB enters medical tent against Jets

Pittsburgh Steelers safety DeShon Elliott left Sunday’s season opener against the New York Jets with an apparent knee injury. Elliott limped off the field in the second quarter and went straight into the blue tent and is doubtful to return, per Mike Garafolo.

Elliott was hurt on attempted a tackle on Jets running back Breece Hall but couldn’t get off his blocker. A pile ensued and the Steelers DB found his leg folded under him at the bottom of the pile.

ESPN’s Brooke Pryor reported that Elliott was seen outside of the medical tent by the end of the drive. He was walking around by the time Jets kicker Nick Folk nailed a 51-yard field goal to improve their lead to 19-10 at the time. By halftime, New York would cut the score to 19-17.

If he does not return, Elliott will have finished the game with six total tackles, including five solo. It was a strong start for the former Texas Longhorns star in his second season with the franchise.

Elliott had a career-high season during his first year in Pittsburgh. He finished the season with 108 total tackles (73 solo), as well as two forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, one interception and six pass breakups.

He was beginning his seventh NFL in 2025, and will hope to return to the field soon whether that’s in Week 2 or beyond. His injury status will likely be updated throughout the week.

On the other side of the field, New York Jets running back Kene Nwangwu left the game with a hamstring injury. He is questionable to return.

For now, the Steelers remain locked in a close matchup in New York against the Jets. Fans can watch Aaron Rodgers’ return to his old home turf live on CBS Sports.

Steelers vs. Jets Inactives List

Steelers:

DT Derrick Harmon
QB Skylar Thompson
OL Andrus Peat
OL Max Scharping
OLB Nick Herbig
DL Esezi Otomewo

Jets:

WR Allen Lazard
OT Esa Pole
EDGE Braiden McGregor
TE Jelani Woods
DL Leonard Taylor II

Before the inactives list was revealed, the Steelers ruled out rookie defensive tackle Derrick Harmon while Esa Pole received the same designation from the Jets. Cameron Heyward for the Steelers was on the injury report at one time but was resting. He’s full-go. Meanwhile, Jets star CB Sauce Gardner was cleared to play after being a light participant in practice on Wednesday nursing an injury to his fibula.