Steelers Get Health Boost Ahead of Monday Night Clash with Dolphins
The Pittsburgh Steelers are getting healthier at just the right time. After a gritty Week 14 win over the Ravens, Mike Tomlin’s squad is eyeing a high-stakes Monday night matchup against the Miami Dolphins - and they might be doing it with a few key reinforcements back in the fold.
Kyle Dugger Trending Toward Return
Let’s start with the secondary. Strong safety Kyle Dugger, who missed last Sunday’s divisional battle with a hand injury, was back on the practice field Thursday as a full participant. That’s a big development for a Steelers defense that leaned on Chuck Clark and Jabrill Peppers in his absence.
Dugger’s return would be a welcome sight against a Miami offense that thrives on speed and spacing. His physicality in the box and ability to cover tight ends could be crucial in slowing down a Dolphins unit that loves to attack the middle of the field.
Defensive Line Getting Deeper
Up front, defensive tackles Yahya Black (shoulder) and Keeanu Benton (ankle) were also full participants on Thursday. Both are expected to be available Monday night, which adds depth and versatility to a defensive interior that’s been rotating heavily in recent weeks.
Benton, in particular, has been a disruptive force when healthy, and his presence helps free up T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith off the edge. Black, a rookie, continues to earn more snaps with his raw power and ability to eat blocks in the run game.
Skill Positions Getting Some Relief
On the offensive side, wide receiver DK Metcalf (abdomen) was a full participant, signaling he’s on track to play. Metcalf’s physicality and ability to win contested catches give the Steelers a much-needed vertical threat, especially with the offense still finding its rhythm late in the season.
Inside linebacker Patrick Queen (glute) also practiced in full, which is notable given how central he’s been to the Steelers’ defensive identity this year. Queen’s sideline-to-sideline range and instincts have helped solidify the middle of the field - a key area against Miami’s quick-strike passing game.
Still Some Question Marks
Not everyone is out of the woods yet. Tight end Darnell Washington and linebacker Malik Harrison both remain in concussion protocol and were limited in Thursday’s session. Offensive lineman Andrus Peat (concussion), defensive tackle Derrick Harmon (knee), and safety Kyle Dugger - despite his full practice - are all still officially listed as questionable heading into the weekend.
Veteran wideout Ben Skowronek (finger) and cornerback James Pierre (calf) didn’t practice Thursday but are currently considered probable. Their statuses will be something to monitor as the team ramps up preparations.
Long-Term Injuries Still Looming
The Steelers continue to deal with a lengthy injured reserve list that includes several season-ending losses. Notably, left tackle Broderick Jones (neck) and safety DeShon Elliott (knee) remain sidelined, while defensive tackle Isaiahh Loudermilk, quarterback Skylar Thompson, and others are also out for the year.
The attrition has been real, but Pittsburgh’s depth has held up admirably - and with some key names trending in the right direction, the Steelers could be close to fielding one of their more complete lineups in weeks.
Looking Ahead
The Dolphins bring a high-powered offense into Acrisure Stadium, and the Steelers will need all hands on deck to keep pace. Getting Dugger, Benton, Metcalf, and Queen back in action would be a major step toward doing just that. With playoff positioning on the line, this Monday night showdown is shaping up to be one of the most important games of Pittsburgh’s season - and they might just be getting healthy at the perfect time.