Four Steelers Questionable to Return from Injury This Week

PITTSBURGH — Four Pittsburgh Steelers players are questionable to return from injury this week against the Cincinnati Bengals, pending their participation in practice this week, head coach Mike Tomlin broke down during his weekly press conference on Monday.

Quarterback Kenny Pickett is expected to practice in a limited fashion on Tuesday, and Tomlin said the team will monitor his progress from there. Mason Rudolph, not Mitch Trubisky, will replace Pickett if he’s unable to play.

Defensive tackle Cam Heyward remains in the NFL concussion protocol after he reported symptoms after the team’s 30-13 loss to the Indianapolis Colts on Saturday. The club does not generally provide updates on players in the protocol. Keeanu Benton and Montravius Adams will pick up the slack on the defensive line if Heyward is unable to suit up this week.

Strong safety Trenton Thompson appears to be in line to start, after Damontae Kazee was suspended for the remainder of the 2023 season on Monday, as co-starter Keanu Neal remains out with a rib injury. But Thompson is dealing with a stinger suffered against the Colts and is also expected to be limited in practice this week. His status will be monitored.

One of the players that could help fill in as depth behind Thompson is Elijah Riley. The versatile defensive back plays slot cornerback and both safety positions. He has been out four weeks with a high ankle sprain, but Tomlin said he could return this week.

STEELERS INJURY REPORT