The Pittsburgh Steelers got some much-needed clarity on the injury front Tuesday, and there’s a bit of good news to go around-especially when it comes to their pass rush.
Head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed that rookie edge rusher Nick Herbig is trending in the right direction and could be back in the lineup this week when the Steelers face off against the Cleveland Browns. Herbig, who’s flashed some serious upside in limited snaps this season, went down with a hamstring injury during the game against the Dolphins.
He managed to get in some practice work late last week, but ultimately wasn’t ready to go against Detroit. Now, it looks like he’s close to turning the corner.
That’s a welcome sign for a defense that thrives on depth and disruption off the edge. Herbig’s motor and versatility have made him a valuable rotational piece behind T.J.
Watt and Alex Highsmith. Getting him back would be a boost, especially with the playoff race tightening and every snap becoming more meaningful.
Elsewhere on the injury list, it’s a mixed bag.
Cornerback James Pierre, who’s been sidelined the past two games with a calf injury, went through a workout on Tuesday. That’s a positive step, and Tomlin seemed optimistic that Pierre could return to practice this week. The Steelers' secondary has been tested lately, and while Pierre isn’t a starter, his experience and ability to contribute on special teams make him a useful piece to have back in the fold.
The news isn’t quite as encouraging on the offensive line. Starting left guard Isaac Seumalo is still dealing with a triceps injury that kept him out last week.
Tomlin didn’t sound confident about Seumalo’s availability, and if he can’t practice, he’s likely to miss another game. That puts more pressure on Spencer Anderson, who filled in last week but came out of the Detroit game banged up himself.
Anderson is expected to be limited in practice, which could leave the Steelers thin on the interior line heading into a physical matchup with Cleveland’s front.
At wide receiver, Calvin Austin III is working through a hamstring strain. Tomlin listed him as questionable for this week, noting that he’ll likely be limited early in the practice week. Austin brings speed and spacing to the Steelers’ offense, and even if he’s not a high-volume target, his presence alone can stretch defenses and open up opportunities underneath.
Slot corner Brandin Echols is also on the mend, battling a groin injury. Like Austin, he’s expected to be limited early in the week. With the Browns leaning on a short passing game and quick reads, having Echols available to cover the slot could be important.
All in all, the Steelers are navigating the kind of late-season injury juggling act that every playoff hopeful faces. The return of Herbig would be a timely spark for the defense, but they’ll be keeping a close eye on the offensive line and secondary depth as the week unfolds.