PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers started Week 17 with six players on their injury report, including four starters who missed practice. As they begin preparation for the Seattle Seahawks this weekend, the Steelers are waiting on the return of safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (knee), who did not practice.
Running back Najee Harris (knee), guard Isaac Seumalo (shoulder) and inside linebacker Elandon Roberts (pectoral) also missed practice. Quarterback Kenny Pickett (ankle) and safety Trenton Thompson (neck) were limited. Head coach Mike Tomlin has already ruled out Roberts for Week 17 after suffering the pectoral injury in Week 16 against the Cincinnati Bengals. In his place, the Steelers will turn to Mark Robinson, Mykal Walker, Blake Martinez and Myles Jack against the Seahawks. Jack is expected to be elevated from the practice squad.
Tomlin believed Fitzpatrick would start the week in a limited capacity, but with the All-Pro safety sidelined, it appears he’s not ready to be back on the field just yet. Fitzpatrick missed last week after suffering the injury in Week 15. With Thompson being limited, it could give the Steelers safety group some much-needed depth. As of now, cornerback Patrick Peterson and Miles Killebrew were expected to start with practice squad veteran Eric Rowe being called up.
Harris and Seumalo have missed multiple practices over the last several weeks due to their injuries. Neither player has missed a game because of their ailments, and right now, the expectation remains the same, that both will be available against the Seahawks.
