Steelers Nation just got some gut-punch news straight outta the injury report. Wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., after being limited just yesterday, got smacked down to a full-on did-not-participate for Thursday’s practice. What’s even worse, Pittman was actually seen using a scooter to prop up his foot earlier in the week, and Head Coach Mike McCarthy didn’t pull any punches, calling it a “multiple-week” injury. Ouch.
Pittman Jr. Takes a Serious Turn
Look, going from limited to DNP overnight is never a good sign, especially when you’re talking about a key offensive weapon like Pittman Jr. The dude was seen on a scooter after aggravating that foot injury, and now we’ve got McCarthy dropping the “multiple-week” bomb. That’s a huge blow for the offense, no two ways about it. Losing a receiver of his caliber for an extended period means others gotta step up big time, and the coaching staff has got some real headaches figuring out how to adjust the game plan.
The Rest of the Report: Key Guys Battling Back
It’s not just Pittman Jr. giving the Steelers fits. Cornerback Jamel Dean also sat out Thursday’s practice with an ankle issue, another DNP for a critical defensive position. But hey, it’s not all doom and gloom. There were a few glimmers of hope on the injury report. Cornerback Jalen Ramsey, who’s been dealing with a wrist injury, actually improved to limited status, which is a step in the right direction. Running back Rico Dowdle was also limited for the second straight day with a toe problem, so he’s grinding to get back. Even better, safety DeShon Elliott was limited in his first practice since coming off injured reserve with a knee issue, and the team officially opened his activation window. Plus, defensive lineman Cameron Heyward was a full participant after taking a rest day on Wednesday, so that’s good news for the trenches.
With Week 5 against the Colts on deck, you gotta wonder how this pile of injuries impacts game planning. The Colts’ own injury report isn’t even out yet, but the Steelers already know they’ve got some real hurdles to clear. This is where you see who steps up when the chips are down.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Behind the Steel Curtain.
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