Steelers Secondary Banged Up Ahead of Crucial Week 17 Matchup vs. Browns
As the Pittsburgh Steelers gear up for a pivotal Week 17 AFC North clash against the Cleveland Browns, the secondary is suddenly a major storyline - and not in the way Mike Tomlin would prefer.
Veteran safety Jalen Ramsey was sidelined during Thursday’s practice with an illness, casting doubt on his availability for Sunday’s showdown. While the team hasn’t offered many details, this marks the second straight day Ramsey’s status has been in flux, and Friday’s final injury report will be telling. If he can’t go, it would be a significant blow to a Steelers defense that’s already navigating multiple injuries in the defensive backfield.
Ramsey isn’t alone. Slot corner Brandin Echols remained out with a groin injury, and outside corner James Pierre continues to be limited as he works through a lingering calf issue. That’s three key contributors in the secondary either sidelined or less than 100% just days before one of the most important games of the season.
If Ramsey is ruled out, Chuck Clark is expected to step in at free safety. Clark has the experience and versatility to hold things down on the back end, but replacing Ramsey’s instincts and playmaking ability is no small task.
The Steelers have leaned on Asante Samuel Jr. in recent weeks to fill in for Pierre on the outside, and he’s likely to continue in that role Sunday. Meanwhile, rookie Daryl Porter Jr. - who made his NFL debut recently - could be the next man up at slot corner if both Echols and Pierre are unavailable.
Another name to watch is Tre Flowers, a recent addition to the roster who could be called on for depth or even significant snaps depending on how things shake out.
Here’s a closer look at Thursday’s injury report:
- Jalen Ramsey (Illness) - Did not practice. Friday will be critical in determining his status.
- Brandin Echols (Groin) - Missed his second straight day. Trending toward doubtful.
- James Pierre (Calf) - Limited again. Still in question for Sunday.
- Calvin Austin III (Hamstring) - Another DNP. His availability remains uncertain.
- T.J. Watt (Lung) - Limited for the second consecutive day, but the expectation is that he’ll push to play in a game with major playoff implications.
- Jaylen Warren (Hip) - Upgraded to full participation. Good news for Pittsburgh’s ground game.
- Ben Skowronek (Left Hand) and Aaron Rodgers (Left Wrist) - Both full participants and expected to be ready.
- Isaac Seumalo (Triceps) and Nick Herbig (Hamstring) - Limited, but both are trending in the right direction.
The Steelers are also dealing with a long list of players on injured reserve, including several defensive contributors like DeShon Elliott, Isaiahh Loudermilk, and Miles Killebrew, thinning the depth even further.
With the playoff race heating up and the Browns looming in what amounts to a must-win game, Pittsburgh’s defense will need to dig deep - potentially without several key pieces in the secondary. Keep an eye on Friday’s final report, because it could give us a much clearer picture of what the Steelers will be working with come Sunday.