Steelers Get Boost at Corner as James Pierre Returns to Practice Ahead of Ravens Clash
The Pittsburgh Steelers got a much-needed lift on Wednesday as cornerback James Pierre returned to practice, taking a key step forward in his recovery from a concussion suffered in last week’s loss to the Buffalo Bills.
Pierre, who was elevated to the starting outside cornerback role following the team’s release of veteran Darius Slay on Tuesday, missed the entire second half against Buffalo while in the NFL’s concussion protocol. His return to the field, even in a limited capacity, is a promising sign as the Steelers prepare for a pivotal Week 14 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens.
Head coach Mike Tomlin labeled Pierre as “questionable” for Sunday, but with the Ravens looming and Pittsburgh’s secondary already depleted by injuries, even limited participation is a welcome development.
Steelers’ Injury Report Paints a Tough Picture
While Pierre’s return is encouraging, the rest of Pittsburgh’s injury report tells a story of a team battling attrition across the board.
Inside linebacker Patrick Queen, a key cog in the middle of the defense, is also listed as questionable with a glute injury. His status will be one to monitor closely as the week progresses. Queen’s sideline-to-sideline speed and ability to diagnose plays have made him one of the more consistent performers on this Steelers defense.
Quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who’s been working his way back from a broken left wrist, is listed as probable. While he may not be in line to start, his availability adds depth and experience at the position-something Pittsburgh can’t take for granted down the stretch.
Defensive tackle Derrick Harmon, however, has been ruled out with a knee injury, thinning the defensive front as the Steelers prepare to face a Ravens offense that thrives on physicality and downhill running.
Long-Term Injuries Continue to Pile Up
The Steelers’ injured reserve list reads like a who’s who of key contributors. Rookie left tackle Broderick Jones remains out with a neck injury and is expected to stay on IR until at least Week 17. His absence continues to test Pittsburgh’s offensive line depth.
Safety DeShon Elliott (hyperextended right knee), defensive tackle Isaiahh Loudermilk (high ankle sprain), and quarterback Skylar Thompson (hamstring) are all still on IR as well, with no immediate return in sight.
Cornerback Donte Kent, who’s been out since Week 6 with a foot and ankle injury, has returned to practice and is designated to return from IR, though it remains to be seen how quickly he’ll be game-ready.
Several players, however, are out for the season, including cornerback Cory Trice (hamstring, knee), defensive tackle Daniel Ekuale (ACL tear), safety Miles Killebrew (knee), guard Max Scharping (ACL sprain), and defensive tackle Dean Lowry (knee). The loss of Killebrew and Scharping in particular has left noticeable gaps in both special teams and interior line depth.
What It All Means Heading Into Week 14
With the Ravens coming to town, the Steelers are staring down one of their most physical and high-stakes matchups of the season. Baltimore’s offense, anchored by a dynamic ground game and a resurgent passing attack, will test every level of Pittsburgh’s defense.
That makes Pierre’s status all the more important. If he’s cleared in time, he’ll be tasked with helping contain a receiving corps that’s been increasingly efficient as the season’s gone on. And with the Steelers already thin at corner, his presence could be the difference between holding the line or getting picked apart.
There’s still a lot up in the air as Sunday approaches. But if Wednesday’s practice is any indication, the Steelers are hoping to get some reinforcements back just in time for a critical AFC North showdown.