Steelers Get Massive Boost with Return of Key Safety

PITTSBURGH — The Steelers welcomed safety Trenton Thompson back to the practice field, as he was seen participating in drills during the individual period open to the media. Thompson is one of three injured safeties to watch, including Minkah Fitzpatrick and Keanu Neal. Thompson suffered a stinger against the Indianapolis Colts and missed Saturday’s win over the Cincinnati Bengals.

Mike Tomlin stated that Thompson was expected to be limited early in the week, and the team would see where his participation leads them from there.

Tomlin did not update the status of Neal, who has been eligible to return from the injured reserve list for the last two weeks, but has yet to return to practice with a rib injury. But Thompson’s return would give the team a needed boost from their depth at the safety position.

The Steelers were down their top four safeties against the Cincinnati Bengals, but emphatically, Patrick Peterson and Eric Rowe stuck out in a big way. The team got interceptions from both of them and though both had some flaws, for a makeshift group, the veterans shined.

“Can’t say enough about the contributions of guys like Pat Peterson, Eric Rowe, and Myles Jack,” head coach Mike Tomlin said. “We talked last week about, specifically about Rowe and Jack, about how significant their presence was. We didn’t have them on developing on the practice squad as players, we had them on the practice squad as capable players. Guys that we can call upon and give up varsity-like work, effort, and their play reflected that. We got sack from Jack, we got an interception from Rowe, and Pat in his first game full time as a safety. I’m just really appreciative of the group’s efforts and versatility.”

Those reinforcements will be key for the Steelers facing a talented Seahawks receiving corps. With the injuries at linebacker, too, any help from the safety position is needed.