The Pittsburgh Steelers are heading into their matchup against the Detroit Lions with a banged-up roster, and the injury report reads like a who's who of key contributors. Most notably, the defense will be without its heartbeat: T.J. Watt.
Watt, the perennial All-Pro and tone-setter for Pittsburgh’s front seven, has been ruled out after suffering a partially collapsed lung during a dry needling treatment last week. While that kind of injury sounds as serious as it is rare, there’s at least some optimism in the building-Watt has returned to team facilities, a positive sign that his recovery is progressing.
But the Steelers are taking no chances. With the playoffs still in reach, they’re letting Watt heal at his own pace.
Without Watt, the Steelers’ pass rush takes a significant hit-and it doesn’t stop there. Nick Herbig, the rookie outside linebacker who’s flashed in limited reps this season, is also unlikely to suit up.
He’s dealing with a hamstring injury suffered in the Monday night game against the Dolphins. Even though he managed a limited practice on Friday, the team appears poised to give another rookie, Jack Sawyer, the starting nod on the edge.
It’s a big moment for Sawyer, who’ll be asked to contribute meaningful snaps against a Lions offensive line that doesn’t give up much.
In the secondary, cornerback James Pierre will miss his second straight game with a calf injury. That opens the door once again for Asante Samuel Jr., the midseason pickup who’s already making his presence felt. Samuel made a splash last week with a timely interception against Tua Tagovailoa, and he’ll be counted on to bring that same playmaking energy against Detroit’s passing attack.
On the offensive line, the Steelers are down a veteran presence in Isaac Seumalo. The starting right guard is out with a triceps injury and didn’t log a single practice rep this week.
That likely means Spencer Anderson will slide into the starting lineup at left guard, although veteran Andrus Peat-back from a concussion-could also factor into the rotation. Either way, the interior of Pittsburgh’s offensive line will be tested by a Detroit front that’s known for bringing pressure up the middle.
Special teams could also see a shakeup. Long snapper Christian Kuntz is questionable with a knee injury, and if he can’t go, the Steelers would turn to Cal Adomitis, a former Pitt Panther who’s familiar with the city and the stadium.
There is some good news, though: defensive tackle Derrick Harmon is expected to return after missing the past three games with a knee injury. His presence should help stabilize the interior defensive line, especially with Watt and Herbig out.
Bottom line: the Steelers are limping into this game, but they’re not folding. This is a team built on next-man-up mentality, and Sunday will be a real test of their depth, especially on defense. The Lions bring a balanced, physical offense to the table-and Pittsburgh’s patchwork lineup will need to dig deep to keep pace.