Steelers Missing Key Players Against Browns in Week 17
As the Pittsburgh Steelers head into their Week 17 matchup against the Cleveland Browns, they will be without several key players, which could heavily impact their game plan. For the third consecutive week, linebacker T.J. Watt will not play, as he continues to recover from a lung issue that has kept him sidelined. Watt had returned to practice on a limited basis earlier this week but was ultimately ruled inactive.
Also joining Watt on the list of inactives are receiver Calvin Austin III, cornerbacks Brandin Echols and James Pierre, and guard Isaac Seumalo. With injuries taking a toll on the secondary, the Steelers made a move by signing veteran cornerback Tre Flowers just before Christmas. Over his eight-year NFL career, Flowers has been a reliable defender, starting in 43 games, recording four interceptions, five forced fumbles, and 270 tackles. He expressed his eagerness to contribute to the Steelers' defense, which has been hampered by injuries.
"I’m just trying to help anybody that wants my help, that needs help," Flowers said. "I’m here to serve. I love football, so I’ll give it everything I’ve got." Flowers also mentioned that the Steelers’ defensive system was different from what he’s used to, but he was confident that his experience would allow him to adjust and make an impact.
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In the absence of Austin, who is injured, and DK Metcalf, who is serving a two-game suspension, the Steelers' receiving corps will need to step up. Receiver Ben Skowronek acknowledged the opportunity for others to shine, despite the challenges posed by missing key players. "It's going to be an opportunity for us to step up and still have to win the game," Skowronek stated. "Whoever steps up, we’ve just got to do it and win."
Scotty Miller, who had a breakout moment when Austin was injured earlier in the season, is expected to play a more significant role. "It had been a while since I had done much out there," Miller reflected on his return to action. "So, it definitely felt good to make some plays."
Roman Wilson, a healthy scratch for the last three weeks, is also ready to contribute. "It was a real blessing," Wilson said, reflecting on the time off as an opportunity to evaluate his performance and work on areas of improvement.
In addition to the veterans stepping up, the Steelers elevated offensive lineman Jack Driscoll and defensive back D'Shawn Jamison from the practice squad. Driscoll has already seen action in previous weeks, while Jamison brings experience from a stint with the Carolina Panthers last season.
As the game approaches, the Steelers will be hoping that their next-man-up mentality will be enough to overcome the challenges posed by these key absences. The full list of inactives for both teams includes Steelers' QB Will Howard, RB Kaleb Johnson, and others, while the Browns will be missing quarterback Dillion Gabriel and several key starters of their own.
This will be a crucial game for the Steelers, and with injuries affecting both sides, it’s an opportunity for those who get the chance to play to make a lasting impact.
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