The Pittsburgh Steelers are set to face the Cleveland Browns on Sunday without four key players, including star outside linebacker T.J. Watt. Watt, who has been recovering from a partially collapsed lung, was limited in practice throughout the week, as he works on fitness to return to the field. Despite making progress, the team and head coach Mike Tomlin have determined that he is not yet ready for game action.
Additionally, cornerback James Pierre will miss his third consecutive game due to a calf injury. After starting the week with limited participation in practice, Pierre experienced a regression on Friday, failing to practice at all, which raises concerns about the state of his injury.
Wide receiver Calvin Austin III and cornerback Brandin Echols will also be absent as they have not practiced all week due to hamstring and groin issues, respectively. The team is additionally dealing with cornerback Jalen Ramsey, who has missed the last two days of practice due to illness and is now listed as questionable. Guard Isaac Seumalo has been limited throughout the week and is also questionable to play.
Despite these challenges, the Steelers remain focused on their preparations as they look to compete against the Browns, hoping to adapt their strategies and find success on the field in light of the missing players. The team’s resilience and ability to adjust will be key as they aim for a vital win.