The Steelers’ Week 3 showdown against the Bengals is looming, and Pittsburgh just dropped their second injury report of the week. The biggest gut punch? Running back Rico Dowdle is still a “Did Not Practice” on Thursday, exactly like Wednesday. That toe injury is clearly a major concern for the AFC North clash.
Offensive Woes: Pittman Jr. and Warren Limited
It’s not just Dowdle. The offense is looking shaky with other key players not at 100%. Wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. remained a limited participant on Thursday, nursing a foot issue. He was also limited on Wednesday. Then there’s running back Jaylen Warren, who was limited both Wednesday and Thursday with a shoulder injury. Having two running backs sidelined or limited for an AFC North brawl? That’s rough. We need these guys healthy for Sunday.
Defense Getting Healthier, But Bengals Face Their Own Headaches
On the defensive side for Pittsburgh, there’s a glimmer of hope. Cornerback Jalen Ramsey, who didn’t practice Wednesday for rest, was a full participant on Thursday. That’s a good sign! And cornerback Joey Porter Jr., who was limited Wednesday for conditioning, also saw limited practice Thursday. Jamel Dean, a cornerback who was DNP Wednesday with an ankle issue, was limited on Thursday, which is an improvement. Linebacker Cole Holcomb, DNP Wednesday for personal reasons, also got in a limited practice Thursday. Rookie guard Gennings Dunker, who wasn’t listed Wednesday, managed a limited practice Thursday with a knee issue. So, some progress there.
Meanwhile, the Bengals are dealing with their own major problems. Wide receiver Andrei Iosivas is a “Did Not Practice” on Thursday for a thumb injury, just like Wednesday. And their defensive line is hurting big time: B.J. Hill is DNP for an Achilles problem, and Jonathan Allen is DNP for a knee and rest combination. Both were also DNP Wednesday. That’s a huge hit to their defensive front right before a divisional game. You love to see it when your opponent is missing key pieces, but injuries are never fun.
Sunday Is Coming: What These Injuries Mean
The Steelers and Bengals are set for an absolute grinder of an AFC North matchup this Sunday. With Dowdle, Pittman Jr., and Warren all question marks or limited on offense, Pittsburgh is gonna need some serious grit. On the flip side, the Bengals losing major defensive line pieces could open things up. This is a pivotal divisional game, and every single injury status update matters. Get ready, it’s gonna be intense!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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