With just two weeks left in the regular season, the stakes couldn’t be more different for the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers heading into their Week 17 showdown. For the Browns, it’s all about positioning in the 2026 NFL Draft. For the Steelers, it’s about survival - and possibly seizing the AFC North crown.
Pittsburgh enters the week walking the tightrope between playoff contention and elimination. A win keeps their division hopes alive.
A loss? That could set up a nerve-wracking, win-or-go-home scenario in Week 18.
Meanwhile, Cleveland is playing for pride - and draft capital - but that doesn’t mean they won’t have a say in how the AFC shakes out. A Browns win could throw a wrench into Pittsburgh’s postseason plans, and in a rivalry like this, that’s more than enough motivation.
But here’s where it gets messy: the injury report. And not just any injury report - we’re talking about a laundry list of 28 players between both teams. It’s December football, and the bruises are adding up fast.
Cleveland’s Banged-Up Roster
The Browns are limping into this one. Tight end David Njoku was held out of practice with a knee issue, a concerning sign given his importance in Cleveland’s passing game. If he can’t go, the Browns lose a key safety valve and red zone target.
Veteran guard Joel Bitonio was limited, but that was due to rest - a common practice this late in the season for seasoned linemen. More worrying is the growing list of defensive contributors nursing injuries.
Cornerbacks Denzel Ward and Tyson Campbell are both limited with calf and shoulder injuries, respectively. That’s not ideal when you’re facing a Steelers team that, when healthy, can stretch the field.
On the defensive front, Cleveland’s depth is being tested. Mason Graham (rib), Mike Hall Jr. (illness), and Sam Kamara (elbow) are all on the report, and while none are listed as out yet, the sheer volume of limited participants raises red flags about the unit’s ability to hold up for four quarters.
Linebacker Winston Reid (back) and safety Rayshawn Jenkins (ankle) also join the list, potentially thinning a defense that’s already been leaned on heavily this season.
There is one bright spot: rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders is listed as a full participant despite a finger issue. While he’s not expected to start, his availability is a positive sign for the Browns’ depth under center.
Pittsburgh’s Playoff Push Hits a Speed Bump
The Steelers are in better shape overall, but they’re not without their own concerns. Calvin Austin (hamstring) and Brandin Echols (groin) both missed practice, and those absences could impact Pittsburgh’s speed on both sides of the ball. Austin’s explosiveness in the slot is a weapon when healthy, and Echols has been a steady presence in the secondary.
Star linebacker T.J. Watt was limited with a lung issue - yes, a lung - though he’s the kind of player who will do everything possible to be on the field when it matters.
Still, his status is something to monitor closely. If Watt is less than 100%, that changes the dynamic of Pittsburgh’s pass rush dramatically.
Veteran defensive tackle Cameron Heyward took a rest day, while rookie offensive lineman Troy Fautanu was absent for personal reasons. Neither is expected to miss the game, but their participation as the week progresses will be worth watching.
Running back Jaylen Warren (hip) and linebacker Nick Herbig (hamstring) were both limited, and while Warren has emerged as a key contributor in the backfield, the Steelers have options if he’s not at full strength.
And yes - that Aaron Rodgers listed on the report is the Steelers’ quarterback now, and he’s a full go with a minor wrist issue. His presence alone keeps Pittsburgh dangerous, regardless of who’s suiting up around him.
What to Watch This Week
With Christmas falling on Thursday, the week’s practice schedule is a bit unusual. Teams will be adjusting their routines, and that could impact how quickly injured players can ramp back up.
For the Browns, it’s about evaluating young talent and playing spoiler. For the Steelers, it’s about keeping the dream alive.
This game might not look like a marquee matchup on paper, but don’t be fooled - there’s plenty on the line. Pittsburgh’s playoff hopes hang in the balance.
Cleveland’s future draft stock could shift. And with a rivalry this intense, expect both teams to bring it, no matter who’s on the field.