Steelers Dealing With Key Injuries Ahead of Crucial Week 17 Matchup vs. Browns
As the Pittsburgh Steelers gear up for a pivotal Week 17 clash against the Cleveland Browns, several key players are nursing injuries, and their status remains uncertain heading into game week. Head coach Mike Tomlin, speaking during his weekly Tuesday press conference, didn’t offer much in the way of definitive updates-but he also didn’t rule anyone out.
Let’s break down where things stand for the five players currently in question: wide receiver Calvin Austin III, cornerbacks Brandin Echols and James Pierre, left guard Isaac Seumalo, and outside linebacker T.J. Watt.
Wide Receiver Calvin Austin III (Hamstring)
Austin exited Sunday’s game against the Detroit Lions with a hamstring injury and did not return.
At this point, there’s no clear timeline for his return, and Tomlin didn’t provide much clarity on Tuesday. If Austin isn’t able to go, rookie Roman Wilson is the most likely candidate to step into a larger role.
Wilson has shown flashes this season and could bring some versatility to the offense. Scotty Miller is another name to watch-his speed and experience could make him a useful option in certain packages.
Cornerback Brandin Echols (Groin)
Echols also left the Lions game early, and like Austin, he didn’t return.
Tomlin said he’s “hopeful” Echols can get back on the practice field this week, but groin injuries can be tricky, especially for a player who relies on quick lateral movement. In Echols’ absence, the Steelers made an interesting adjustment in the secondary-sliding Jalen Ramsey down into the slot while Chuck Clark filled in at safety.
That alignment could stick if Echols isn’t ready by Sunday.
Cornerback James Pierre (Calf)
Pierre has missed the last two games after suffering a calf injury in Week 14 against the Ravens.
On Tuesday, Tomlin noted that Pierre was back at the facility getting in some work, which is a positive sign. However, he’ll likely be limited in practice as the team monitors his progress.
Asante Samuel Jr. has been filling in on the outside, and if Pierre is cleared to return, Samuel could potentially shift inside to cover for Echols if needed.
Left Guard Isaac Seumalo (Triceps)
There was no update on Seumalo, who left the Steelers’ Week 15 win over Miami and hasn’t returned to action since.
The veteran lineman has been a steady presence on the interior, and his absence would be a big blow against a Cleveland defense that thrives on interior pressure. The Steelers have rotated depth pieces in his place, but none bring the same level of consistency and experience Seumalo offers.
Outside Linebacker T.J. Watt (Lung)
Perhaps the biggest question mark of the week is the status of T.J. Watt.
The All-Pro pass rusher has missed the last two games after suffering a lung injury, and Tomlin remained tight-lipped on his availability. Watt’s presence-or absence-could be a game-changer.
When he’s on the field, the Steelers’ defense is a different animal. Without him, they’ve had to lean more heavily on Nick Herbig and the rest of the edge group to generate pressure.
Quick Look at the Injury Report
Here’s a snapshot of where things stand for the Steelers’ active roster heading into the week:
- Probable: OL Spencer Anderson (undisclosed), RB Jaylen Warren (undisclosed), OLB Nick Herbig (hamstring)
- Questionable: WR Calvin Austin III (hamstring), CB Brandin Echols (groin), LG Isaac Seumalo (triceps), OLB T.J. Watt (lung), CB James Pierre (calf)
Injured Reserve Update
The Steelers' IR list remains lengthy, with several key contributors out for the season or long-term:
- Season-ending injuries: CB Donte Kent, CB Cory Trice, DT Daniel Ekuale, SS Miles Killebrew, OG Max Scharping, DT Dean Lowry
- Out through Week 17 or playoffs: OT Calvin Anderson, LT Broderick Jones, SS DeShon Elliott, DT Isaiahh Loudermilk, QB Skylar Thompson
What It All Means
With playoff positioning on the line, the Steelers are entering Week 17 walking a fine line between cautious optimism and roster uncertainty.
The health of players like Watt, Seumalo, and Austin could swing the pendulum in either direction. Tomlin and his staff will be watching practice reps closely throughout the week, hoping for positive signs from their key contributors.
Sunday’s game in Cleveland is shaping up to be one of the most important of the season-and Pittsburgh’s ability to field a healthy, cohesive unit could be the difference between staying in the postseason hunt or falling out of it.