Pittsburgh Steelers release final injury report ahead of AFC clash vs. Bengals
The Pittsburgh Steelers suffered a devastating loss to the Los Angeles Chargers last week. It was clear, especially on the defensive side of the ball, the absence of several key starters had an impact on the final outcome of the game.
With a key divisional battle against the Cincinatti Bengals up next for Mike Tomlin and company, the Steelers’ are much healthier and will welcome the return of at least two key defensive stars.
On Friday, the Steelers’ released their official injury report ahead of Sunday’s game.
Linebacker T.J. Watt, who sustained a hip and knee injury against the Lions, practiced for the third straight day, and while he was limited on Wednesday and Thursday, he was a full participant on Friday.
Cornerback Joe Haden (foot), who missed practice on Wednesday, was limited on Thursday and Friday and is questionable. The Pittsburgh Steelers’ brass will make a game-time decision on the cornerback, but the secondary is also getting their star safety back.
Pittsburgh activated safety Minkah Fitzpatrick from the Reserve/COVID List on Thursday after he was sidelined since Nov. 15.
Defensive end Isaiahh Loudermilk, who suffered a groin injury in practice last week and missed the Chargers game, was a full participant for the second straight day.
While there were several names listed on the injury report throughout the week including quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, the final list should give Steelers’ fans plenty of optimism heading into a critical matchup.
The most significant player to watch is Haden. Tight end Eric Ebron has been ruled out, but that isn’t a major surprise.
Pittsburgh Steelers Participation/Injury Report, Week 12
Game Status
CB Joe Haden (Foot) – Questionable
OL J.C. Hassenauer (Pectoral) – Out
TE Eric Ebron (Knee) – Out
Pittsburgh Steelers’ coach refuses to make excuses after Chargers’ loss
Mike Tomlin praised the players who filled in for the injured starters, but says the coaching staff can’t make excuses after any loss.
“We’ve got to get back to the drawing board and do a better job of putting them in position to be successful with the people that we have at our disposal,” Tomlin said after the Chargers’ game.
In any given week, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ head coach says the team must be able to thrive despite injuries, an issue all 53 teams face on a weekly basis.
“And that was challenging tonight, but we make no excuses. It needs to be better. That’s how we win the circumstances and get out of these circumstances. Just really appreciate of the efforts of all the people involved.”
The return of Watt, Fitzpatrick and Loudermilk and potentially Haden can’t be overstated as the Pittsburgh Steelers try to right the ship on Sunday.