Steelers Tuesday Notebook: Metcalf’s Grit, Depth Concerns, and a Monday Night Weather Watch
Welcome to Tuesday, Steelers fans. Let’s dive into what’s shaping up to be a pivotal week for Pittsburgh, both on and off the field.
D.K. Metcalf: More Than Just a Star Receiver
Let’s start with D.K. Metcalf.
Seven catches. 148 yards. Then-just when you thought he was done-he steps in as the gunner on punt coverage.
That’s not a typo. One of the league’s premier wideouts took on one of the most physically demanding and thankless roles on special teams.
And then came the twist: abdominal pain forced Metcalf to stay behind in Baltimore, where he spent the night in the hospital. He made it back to Pittsburgh on Monday, but his status for Monday Night Football is now very much in question.
There’s a lot to unpack here, but let’s be clear-Metcalf’s toughness isn’t up for debate. You don’t see many WR1s lining up as gunners.
That’s a tone-setter move. It says a lot about his mindset and his willingness to do whatever the team needs.
Mike Tomlin is expected to address Metcalf’s availability in today’s press conference, and all eyes will be on that update.
Real Talk: Realist or Pessimist?
There’s a fine line between realism and pessimism-especially when it comes to evaluating this Steelers team. Being realistic doesn’t mean ignoring the good. It means calling it like it is, both the highs and the lows.
This team has shown flashes-grit, resilience, and playmaking ability. But it’s also had its share of concerning trends.
The key is staying honest about both. That’s how you get better.
That’s how you improve. And that’s how fans stay grounded without losing hope.
Darnell Washington: A Story Worth Watching
If you’re not already pulling for Darnell Washington, take a minute to dive into his backstory. It’s powerful stuff.
The kind of journey that makes you root for a guy even harder. He’s not just a physical mismatch on the field-he’s a player with heart, perspective, and a relentless drive.
And as the season wears on, don’t be surprised if his role continues to grow.
Philip Rivers? Yes, That Philip Rivers
File this under “things we didn’t expect in 2025.” The Indianapolis Colts are reportedly bringing in Philip Rivers for a workout.
Yes, that Philip Rivers-the one who last played in 2020, just turned 44, and is now a grandfather. The Colts are clearly in scramble mode, and while it’s hard to imagine Rivers suiting up again, the very fact that this is even a conversation tells you how thin the quarterback market is right now.
Steelers Roster Watch: Trenches Under the Microscope
Two areas the Steelers need to shore up immediately: the defensive line and left tackle.
Let’s start with the O-line. Andrus Peat was holding his own before leaving the game with a concussion.
Not dominant, but serviceable. When he went down, Dylan Cook stepped in at left tackle for his first-ever in-game action-and it showed.
That’s not a knock on Cook, but it’s a reminder of how thin the depth chart is at one of the most critical positions in football.
Defensively, the line is feeling the absence of Derrick Harmon. Keeanu Benton continues to flash, but he’s more of a disruptor than a space-eater.
The Steelers have given up 470 rushing yards over their last two games-that’s not all on the front, but it starts there. If they can’t hold the point of attack, everything else breaks down.
Inside Blitz Drops Tonight
The SCB Steelers Inside Blitz podcast returns tonight with a quick-hitting breakdown of where the team stands heading into the week. Expect a deeper dive on Thursday’s full-length show at 10 p.m. ET, but tonight’s episode will set the table for what’s shaping up to be a crucial stretch.
Quick Hits: Bowl Games, Catch Rules, and Cold Weather Stats
- Notre Dame has opted out of playing in a bowl game. If that decision came from the players, it’s hard to argue with it.
After aiming for a playoff spot, settling for a mid-tier bowl can feel like a letdown.
- The Isaiah Likely touchdown-that-wasn’t on Sunday? By the letter of the law, the officials probably got it right.
But let’s be honest-nobody really knows what a catch is anymore.
- Monday Night’s forecast? Cold.
Like, 20 degrees with snow flurries cold. That’s Pittsburgh in December, folks.
- One more nugget: Tua Tagovailoa is 0-7 in games played in sub-45-degree weather. That’s not just a stat-it’s a trend. And with the AFC playoff picture tightening, it’s something to keep an eye on.
There’s plenty to monitor this week-from Metcalf’s health to the Steelers’ depth chart to the swirling snow that could define Monday Night Football. Buckle up, Steelers Nation. December football is here, and it’s about to get real.