The AFC North is living up to its reputation as one of the NFL’s toughest divisions, and this weekend's Steelers-Ravens clash is shaping up to be a season-defining moment for both teams. Sitting at 6-6 apiece, Pittsburgh and Baltimore are locked in a high-stakes race-not just for a playoff spot, but potentially for the division crown.
And with how the standings are shaking out, even a loss this weekend doesn’t necessarily eliminate either team from contention. But let’s be clear: the margin for error is razor thin.
For the Steelers, the lead-up to this game hasn’t exactly been smooth sailing. The injury report out of Pittsburgh is a tough read.
T.J. Watt, Aaron Rodgers, and Patrick Queen all missed Wednesday’s practice, and each absence raises serious questions about the team’s readiness for a physical Ravens matchup.
Watt, who’s been the heartbeat of Pittsburgh’s defense for years, is dealing with a toe injury after getting stepped on late in Sunday’s game. It’s the latest in a string of frustrations for the All-Pro linebacker.
While he’s still been disruptive, his sack totals in 2024 and 2025 haven’t matched the dominance we saw in 2023, when he racked up 19 sacks and wreaked havoc on a weekly basis. This season, he’s been drawing more double-teams than anyone in the league, and now a toe injury threatens to sideline him in what might be the most important game of the season.
If Watt can’t go on Sunday, the Steelers will be missing not just their best pass rusher, but their emotional leader on defense. That’s a massive blow, especially against a Ravens offense that can grind you down if you’re not bringing pressure consistently.
Then there’s Aaron Rodgers, who’s dealing with a left wrist injury after taking a hard hit from Bills edge rusher Joey Bosa. Rodgers was slammed to the turf on a sack, and the impact clearly lingered.
It’s been a rocky year for him in Pittsburgh-flashes of brilliance, but also stretches where the offense just hasn’t clicked. The wrist issue only adds another layer of uncertainty to an already inconsistent unit.
To try and stabilize things on offense, the Steelers recently claimed veteran wide receiver Adam Thielen off waivers from the Vikings. Thielen may not be the deep threat he once was, but he brings experience, reliability, and a savvy route-running skill set that this young Pittsburgh offense sorely needs. With the current receiving corps struggling to create separation or make contested catches, Thielen could carve out a meaningful role down the stretch-especially if Rodgers is healthy enough to play and build chemistry with him quickly.
Patrick Queen, who’s been a key piece in the middle of the defense since arriving from Baltimore, also missed practice with a glute injury. His availability will be something to monitor closely. Facing his old team, Queen’s instincts and speed would be vital in containing Baltimore’s run game and keeping their mobile quarterback in check.
The good news for the Steelers? It’s only Wednesday.
There’s still time for Watt, Rodgers, and Queen to get back on the field before Sunday. But make no mistake: this game is a gut check.
The Ravens are always a tough out, and with both teams desperate to keep their playoff hopes alive, expect a classic AFC North slugfest.
If Pittsburgh wants to stay in the hunt, they’ll need their stars on the field-and they’ll need them playing like stars.