PITTSBURGH — The Steelers do not expect safety Minkah Fitzpatrick to be able to return from the COVID-19 Reserve List in time to play this Sunday night against the Los Angeles Chargers.
Fitzpatrick, who was placed on the list on Monday, would have to be symptom-free for 48 hours and then return consecutive negative tests separated by 24 hours in order to play.
Head coach Mike Tomlin said that he ruled Fitzpatrick out because of the timing of the testing process.
Fitzpatrick has not missed a game since joining the Steelers in 2019, and the team does not have an experienced backup. Sixth-round rookie Tre Norwood is behind Fitzpatrick on the depth chart and was working as the second-team free safety all the way back in training camp.
Cornerback Cam Sutton and Nickel back Arthur Maulet have both also played free safety. Donovan Stiner and Karl Joseph could be candidates to be activated from the practice squad.