Short turnaround forces Steelers to navigate critical injuries while gearing up for Thursday Night Football against the Browns.

Key Updates from Week 11

The Pittsburgh Steelers are navigating a challenging schedule, facing back-to-back AFC North rivals in a short span. Following their hard-fought victory over the Baltimore Ravens in Week 11, the team now turns its focus to the Cleveland Browns for Thursday Night Football. Despite concerns about player injuries, head coach Mike Tomlin offered largely positive updates during his Monday press conference.

Among the biggest reliefs was the status of defensive tackle Keeanu Benton. Benton left Sunday’s game late due to an apparent knee injury, which sparked significant concern. However, Tomlin assured fans that the issue is a “non-issue,” signaling that the second-year player is likely ready for Week 12.

“All of the guys that sustained something in-game, it doesn’t appear to be an issue moving forward, so that’s exciting,” Tomlin stated, further easing worries about the team’s health.

Defensive Depth: Joey Porter Jr. and Cory Trice Jr.

Cornerback Joey Porter Jr. faced multiple setbacks during Week 11, exiting and re-entering the game due to a shin contusion. However, he is expected to remain active, barring complications. Another defensive back, Cory Trice Jr., might make a long-awaited return after having his 21-day practice window activated. Trice has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since Week 3, and his availability could bolster depth as the Steelers manage their secondary.

Veteran Donte Jackson, who was nursing a hamstring injury leading into Week 11, played 90% of defensive snaps against the Ravens. His recovery and participation are encouraging signs for the Steelers’ secondary heading into another physical matchup.

Offensive Adjustments: MyCole Pruitt’s Progress

On the offensive side, tight end MyCole Pruitt has been managing a lingering knee injury throughout the season. Tomlin expressed optimism about Pruitt’s trajectory, noting that his practice reps would likely remain limited on a short week. Still, his potential availability adds a key layer to Pittsburgh’s offensive game plan.

Highsmith’s Uncertainty and Herbig’s Rise

The biggest question mark remains outside linebacker Alex Highsmith, who is nursing an ankle injury. While Tomlin described him as “more out than in,” he did not rule out a surprise return. Highsmith’s initial recovery timeline placed his return around Weeks 13 or 14, making his absence on Thursday unsurprising.

In his stead, Nick Herbig stepped up in Week 11, playing a season-high 82% of snaps and contributing significantly to the win. Herbig recorded two tackles, a quarterback hit, and a critical forced fumble against Derrick Henry, showcasing his readiness to fill Highsmith’s shoes for another week if needed.

A Positive Outlook

Despite the quick turnaround and physical toll of back-to-back divisional games, the Steelers appear well-positioned to tackle the Browns in Week 12. With key players like Benton and Porter expected to remain active and the possibility of Trice’s return, Pittsburgh’s depth is showing resilience.

As the team prepares for yet another bruising AFC North battle, fans can take comfort in Tomlin’s reassuring updates. For the Steelers, every player counts as they push for divisional dominance.