Steelers Face Depth Test Ahead of Crucial Matchup vs. Browns
PITTSBURGH - The Pittsburgh Steelers are heading into Sunday’s divisional clash against the Cleveland Browns with some serious question marks on both sides of the ball-particularly in the secondary and along the offensive line.
Let’s start with the defense, where the Steelers could be without yet another key piece in the secondary. Veteran defensive back Jalen Ramsey is listed as questionable due to an illness that sidelined him for both Thursday and Friday’s practices. If Ramsey can’t suit up, the Steelers would be down three defensive backs for this critical AFC North matchup.
Brandin Echols (groin) and James Pierre (calf) have already been ruled out, leaving the Steelers thin at corner. That puts pressure on a few names to step up-chief among them Chuck Clark, who would be the likely starter at free safety if Ramsey is unavailable.
The cornerback rotation could also see some shakeups. Asante Samuel Jr. has filled in for Pierre the past two weeks, and Daryl Porter Jr., who just made his NFL debut, may be next in line for slot duties. Another name to watch is Tre Flowers, the veteran corner the team recently signed, who could be thrust into action depending on how things shake out before kickoff.
This isn’t just a depth issue-it’s a chemistry one. The Steelers’ secondary has already been juggling roles and responsibilities, and losing Ramsey would only add more instability against a Browns offense that’s shown flashes of explosiveness.
On the offensive side, left guard Isaac Seumalo is also questionable as he continues to manage a triceps injury suffered in Week 15 against the Dolphins. He missed last week’s win over the Lions and was limited in every practice session this week. If he can’t go, Spencer Anderson would step in at left guard.
Seumalo has been a steady presence on the line this season, starting all 13 games he’s played. Earlier in the year, he dealt with a pectoral issue but managed to stay on the field. His experience and consistency have been vital for a Steelers offensive front that’s been reshaped over the past couple of seasons.
After spending seven years with the Eagles-starting over 60 games-Seumalo signed a three-year deal with the Steelers in 2023. That same offseason, Pittsburgh also brought in Nate Herbig, signaling a shift in direction at guard. Since then, both Kevin Dotson and James Daniels have been phased out of the starting lineup.
Here’s a look at the Steelers’ final injury report heading into Week 17:
Injury Report Highlights:
- Jalen Ramsey (Illness): Did not practice Thursday or Friday; questionable.
- Isaac Seumalo (Triceps): Limited all week; questionable.
- Brandin Echols (Groin): Out.
- James Pierre (Calf): Out.
- **T.J.
Watt (Lung):** Limited all week; ruled out.
- Calvin Austin III (Hamstring): Out.
Other Notables:
- Jaylen Warren (Hip): Full participant Thursday and Friday; good to go.
- Nick Herbig (Hamstring): Upgraded to full participation Friday; expected to play.
- Aaron Rodgers (Left wrist) and Ben Skowronek (Left hand): Full participants all week; no game designation.
The Steelers’ depth will be tested on Sunday. With multiple starters either out or questionable, this is a week where backups become difference-makers. If Pittsburgh wants to keep its playoff hopes alive, it’ll need strong performances from some unexpected names-particularly in the secondary and the interior O-line.
The Browns won’t make it easy. But if the Steelers can weather the storm and get solid contributions from their next men up, they’ll have a fighting chance in what’s shaping up to be one of the most pivotal games of their season.