PITTSBURGH — Steelers cornerback Donte Jackson exited Sunday’s game against the Cleveland Browns during the third quarter, walking to the sideline under his own power with what was later labeled as a back injury.
He went into and came out of the tent, remaining on the sideline after the Steelers stopped Cleveland on downs at the Browns’ 46-yard line four plays later. Jackson was questionable to return as James Pierre took his place, but was back in action during Cleveland’s second possession of the fourth frame.
Along with a sixth-round 2024 draft pick, Jackson was acquired last offseason in a trade that sent receiver Diontae Johnson and a 2024 seventh-round pick to Carolina. Jackson has pulled in interceptions against Atlanta, Dallas, Las Vegas, Cleveland, and Cincinnati — totaling five on the season, his most in any campaign of his seven-year professional career.
Before arriving in Pittsburgh, Jackson spent six go-rounds with the Panthers, recording 14 interceptions and 46 passes defended. He was injured often, however, as he played in all of their regular-season games just once – during his rookie year.
As for Johnson — who spent five seasons in black and gold — he has since been shipped to Baltimore. He’s played very sparingly with the Ravens and was suspended for conduct detrimental to the team for its matchup with the New York Giants next week.
The punishment was reportedly because Johnson refused to enter the game during the Ravens’ loss to Philadelphia last week. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said after the trade that Pittsburgh filled an essential need with Jackson. Mark Kaboly wrote that the Steelers likely weren’t going to re-sign Johnson when his contract expired .