Pittsburgh Steelers release Thursday injury report ahead of Week 8 at Philadelphia Eagles
The Pittsburgh Steelers released their Thursday injury report ahead of their Week 8 in-state showdown with the Philadelphia Eagles.
The biggest news from the report was that none other than superstar defender TJ Watt returned to practice on Thursday, his first since Sept. 15, according to the Steelers.
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“Linebacker T.J. Watt returned to practice today, his first day back after being placed on the Reserve/Injured List on Sept. 15,” wrote the franchise. “The Steelers have a 21-day window to either activate Watt to the 53-man roster, or he remains on the Reserve/Injured List for the remainder of the season.”
“Watt was placed on the list after suffering a pectoral injury against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 1 of the season. … The reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year, had a sack and an interception in the win over the Bengals, before leaving the game with the injury. … Without Watt in the lineup, the defense is currently ranked 28th overall in the NFL, and 18th against the run.”
While Watt returning will be the news Steelers fans cling to for some hope, a couple sizable names were held out of practice, as well.
Along the defensive line, Pittsburgh reported that defensive tackles Montravius Adams (hamstring) and Larry Ogunjobi (knee) missed practiced.
In the secondary, cornerback Levi Wallace didn’t practice, as the Steelers mentioned he’s dealing with a a shoulder injury he sustained against the Miami Dolphins last week. Prior, Wallace missed the previous week with a concussion. Additionally, cornerback Josh Jackson (groin) didn’t practice.
As for the offensive side of the football, Steven Sims (hamstring) was limited, along with tight end Pat Freiermuth (ankle).
Moreover, there was some unfortunate news regarding rookie wide receiver Calvin Austin III, as it was determined he will remain on the Reserve/Injured List after the 21-day window to activate him expired.
“Austin was placed on the list at the beginning of the season after suffering a foot injury in training camp. Under the Reserve/Injured List rules he was required to miss the first four weeks of the season,” wrote the Steelers. “Austin returned to practice on. Oct. 5 at which point the 21-day window was activated.
“Austin didn’t see any action in the preseason, suffering his injury prior to the first preseason game.”
Regardless, Steelers faithful will rejoice hearing TJ Watt returned to practice, hoping to see him on the field sooner rather than later. There’s still time to turn around a disappointing start to the season, and Watt will be a huge component in their ability to do so.