The Steelers will be missing several players tonight due to injuries, including linebacker Nick Herbig, center Zach Frazier, and running back Cordarrelle Patterson, all ruled inactive after being declared out on Friday.
Although Herbig is unavailable, Alex Highsmith, another linebacker, is active for the first time since Week 3.
Highsmith’s return is expected to significantly strengthen the defense.
“Having another quality rusher means the opposing team must account for both. Those guys face that regularly,” said defensive coordinator Teryl Austin.
“I don’t believe it affects T.J. (Watt) since they’ll always devise strategies to protect him. Now, this provides Alex with more opportunities. If it has any impact, it keeps an additional player in protection, which aids us in managing our overall numbers.”
“We’ll see how they approach the game and assess Alex’s readiness and willingness,” added Austin.
Highsmith has missed three games due to a groin injury, a challenging situation for him.
“It feels fantastic. I’m just eager to get back out there this week,” Highsmith shared. “I’m feeling really good, I performed well in practice, and I’m thrilled to be back.
“It’s been a while. It’s the first time in my career I’ve missed games, so I’m not accustomed to that feeling. Being back on the field with the team will be incredible, especially in a primetime Sunday Night setting—it doesn’t get better than that.”
“I knew I needed to be cautious. I didn’t want it to linger. When I return, it has to be at 100%, and I feel like I’m there now. I had to approach this wisely because I don’t want it to be an ongoing issue for the rest of the season.”
“I feel it’s in a really good state at the moment, so I’m all set to go.”
Watt is pleased to welcome Highsmith back to the team.
“He’s had a phenomenal week of practice,” Watt mentioned prior to the injury report’s release. “Bringing a veteran like him back is fantastic; I know he’s eager to return and help balance out the pass rush. Obviously, he’s also an excellent run defender, so having him back would be a great advantage.”
Jeremiah Moon will continue to be called upon to
be part of the rotation at outside linebacker with Herbig out.
“Last week, coming in, the expectation remains the same,” Highsmith mentioned. “I think those players brought some energy to the team. Moon made a significant impact not only on defense but also on special teams with that block.”
“He has experience in the league now. He understands the game well. Having someone like him contribute with productive plays is incredibly beneficial for us.”
The team also elevated linebacker Ade Ogundeji from the practice squad to the 53-man roster on Sunday. Originally signed to the practice squad at the beginning of the regular season, Ogundeji was promoted prior to the game against the Raiders. He participated in 16 snaps against the Raiders, finishing with a pass defense before being returned to the practice squad following the game.
Ogundeji was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. During his rookie season, he played in 16 games, starting 11, and concluded the season with 33 tackles, a sack, a pass defense, and a fumble recovery. In 2022, he started all 16 games, totaling 42 tackles and one sack. Unfortunately, he missed the 2023 season due to a foot injury.
With Frazier unavailable, Ryan McCollum will be making his second NFL start, marked as his first at center with the Steelers.
“He’s been impressive,” running back Najee Harris said of McCollum. “He possesses a high football IQ. So we weren’t really worried about it because of his experience; just knowing his understanding of the game, making calls, and handling protections that often go unnoticed. I believe he excels in that area.”
“We’re all quite excited for him. It’s the next-man-up mentality—we all need to be prepared when it’s someone else’s turn.”
Tackle Dan Moore Jr. has complete faith in McCollum’s abilities to seize this opportunity.
“It’s all about the effort he’s put in,” Moore stated. “I believe he has rightly earned this chance, and I have no doubt he will make the most of it.”
“He has consistently performed well during team development. Each time he’s on the field, he keeps everyone aligned. He’s an excellent leader and quite vocal. I think Ryan has done a fantastic job leading the way.”
McCollum has spent the past two seasons on the Steelers practice squad after being claimed off waivers from the Detroit Lions, where he appeared in 13 games and started one. This week, he will make his initial start in a Steelers uniform.
“I’m very excited for this opportunity…”
“I’m really excited,” McCollum expressed. “I’ve been anticipating this moment. For the past four years, I have been preparing for it, and I can’t wait to display my skills.”
Last week, McCollum filled in for Frazier when he was injured against the Raiders. He treats every week as if he’s the starting player, but this week he is getting the practice opportunities to align with his mindset.
“I’m getting all the walkthroughs, practicing different looks, and taking all the reps,” McCollum explained. “On days when I don’t receive them, I focus on taking mental reps from the back because as a backup, those are the only opportunities I’ll see. However, it’s crucial to stay prepared because there should be no drop-off when it’s my turn.”
The team has also promoted receiver Brandon Johnson and running back Jonathan Ward from the practice squad to the Active/Inactive roster for the upcoming game.
Johnson signed with the Broncos as an undrafted free agent after the 2022 NFL Draft. He has been on both the practice squad and active roster for the past two seasons, and he was elevated for the Week 5 game against the Cowboys.
Over 20 games played, Johnson has made three starts and recorded 25 receptions amounting to 326 yards with five touchdowns. He has participated in 13 games this season, securing 19 catches for 284 yards and four touchdowns.
Ward was also elevated for the Week 5 matchup against the Cowboys and the Week 6 game against the Raiders. He attended the Steelers rookie minicamp on a tryout basis and subsequently signed on.
Throughout his four NFL seasons, Ward has appeared in 43 games, carrying the ball 17 times for 69 yards, averaging 4.1 yards per carry. He has also made six receptions for 52 yards, averaging 8.7 yards, including one touchdown. Ward initially signed with the Arizona Cardinals as an undrafted free agent following the 2020 NFL Draft. He spent over two seasons with the Cardinals before joining the Tennessee Titans during the 2022 season and continued with them in 2023.
The complete list of inactive players is provided below.
Steelers Face Challenges as Key Players Sit Out Due to Injuries, but Highsmith Returns to Bolster Defense
Current Injury Status of Key Players
The Pittsburgh Steelers are navigating a challenging season as several key players are sidelined due to injuries. With injuries affecting both offensive and defensive units, the team’s depth is being tested like never before. Here are some of the notable injuries affecting the Steelers:
- Quarterback: Kenny Pickett is recovering from a knee injury sustained in Week 6, which has raised concerns about the team’s offensive performance.
- Running Back: Najee Harris has been dealing with a foot injury, leading to reduced mobility and effectiveness on the field.
- Wide Receiver: Diontae Johnson has missed multiple games, impacting the team’s passing game significantly.
- Safety: Minkah Fitzpatrick’s absence due to a rib injury has left a noticeable gap in the secondary.
Highsmith’s Return: A Boost to the Defense
In the midst of these setbacks, the return of linebacker Alex Highsmith provides a much-needed boost to the Steelers’ defense. Highsmith, who has been a crucial part of the defense, brings not only skill but also leadership to the field. Here’s how his return can impact the Steelers:
- Enhanced Pass Rush: Highsmith’s ability to pressure the quarterback can significantly improve the team’s pass defense and create more turnovers.
- Run Defense: With his keen sense for the game, Highsmith bolsters the front seven, making it tougher for opposing teams to run the ball effectively.
- Leadership: As one of the more experienced defensive players, Highsmith provides mentorship to younger players, fostering a better team dynamic.
Statistical Impact of Injuries
Injuries can significantly alter a team’s performance. Here’s a look at how the absences of key players have affected the Steelers’ overall statistics this season:
| Player | Games Missed | Avg. Yards per Game | Impact on Team |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kenny Pickett | 2 | 215 | Reduced offensive efficiency, increased reliance on backup QB. |
| Najee Harris | 1 | 70 | Inconsistent run game, leading to more pressure on the passing game. |
| Diontae Johnson | 4 | 50 | Decreased scoring opportunities, limited deep threat. |
| Minkah Fitzpatrick | 3 | N/A | Weakened secondary, increased passing yards allowed. |
Adapting to Adversity: How the Steelers Can Overcome Challenges
While injuries are an inevitable part of any NFL season, the Steelers have several strategies they can implement to mitigate the impact of these setbacks:
1. Strengthening the Offensive Line
The Steelers’ offensive line must step up to protect the quarterback and create running lanes. Improved blocking schemes and communication can compensate for injuries to skill players.
2. Utilizing Backup Talent
The depth of the roster will be crucial. The coaching staff should prioritize getting backups up to speed and integrating them into game plans effectively.
3. Emphasizing the Ground Game
With Harris injured, the team could benefit from a stronger emphasis on the running game to alleviate pressure from the passing game. Utilizing a more diverse set of running plays can keep defenses guessing.
4. Defensive Adjustments
With Highsmith back, the defensive coordinator can adjust schemes to maximize his strengths. A more aggressive approach on defense might create more opportunities for turnovers.
5. Engaging the Coaching Staff
Effective communication from the coaching staff regarding player roles and expectations can create a seamless transition for players stepping into new positions due to injuries.
Case Study: Steelers’ Resilience in Past Seasons
The Steelers have a history of overcoming adversity. In the 2019 season, the team faced similar challenges with injuries to Ben Roethlisberger and other key players. Coach Mike Tomlin implemented a “next man up” philosophy, allowing younger athletes to thrive, which ultimately led the team to the playoffs.
This resilience showcases the importance of strong leadership and adaptability within the organization. The lessons learned from previous seasons can serve as a blueprint for addressing current challenges.
Practical Tips for Fans: How to Support the Team During Tough Times
As a fan, it’s essential to maintain a positive outlook during challenging times. Here are some tips for supporting the Steelers:
- Show Up: Attend games to boost team morale. A strong home crowd can make a significant difference.
- Engage on Social Media: Use your platforms to uplift the team and share positive messages. Fan engagement is powerful and can encourage players.
- Support Local Businesses: Visit local establishments that promote the team, especially during home games. This strengthens community ties and supports the Steelers’ fan culture.
- Stay Informed: Follow injury reports and team news to remain updated on player statuses. Knowledge empowers fans to understand the challenges the team faces.
Conclusion
The Pittsburgh Steelers face a testing time as injuries have sidelined several key players, impacting both their offensive and defensive strategies. However, the return of Alex Highsmith offers a glimmer of hope. By leveraging their depth, adapting strategies, and engaging with fans, the Steelers can navigate through this tough patch. As the season progresses, the resilience of the team and the support of their loyal fanbase will be critical in overcoming these challenges.
