Steelers Injury Updates: Chris Boswell, Joe Haden, Robert Spillane All Missed Wednesday’s Practice

Steelers kicker Chris Boswell, cornerback Joe Haden and linebacker Robert Spillane all missed Wednesday’s practice session with injuries, while cornerback Steven Nelson was able to return.

Boswell missed the Steelers’ Week 13 loss to Washington on Monday with a hip ailment suffered at some point late last week. He was replaced by Matthew Wright, who made his NFL debut after being activated from the practice squad.

Haden and Spillane were both injured in the game against Washington. Haden suffered a concussion and Spillane a knee injury. Haden was replaced by second-year backup Justin Layne, while Avery Williamson, who was acquired mid-season in a trade with the New York Jets, spelled Spillane, who is expected to miss time with his injury.

Nelson missed the Washington game after he suffered a knee injury against Baltimore in Week 12. His return would allow Cam Sutton to flip to the other side of the field. The usual Dime corner moved outside to replace Nelson against Washington and he could replace Haden against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday night if Haden is unable to return, moving Layne back to a Dime role.

Additionally, defensive tackle Chris Wormley did not practice with an illness. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, guard David DeCastro and tackle Alejandro Villanueva were given the day off.

Running back James Conner returned to practice from the COVID-19 reserve list and linebacker Ulysess Gilbert III began his three weeks of practice time while returning from the injured reserve with a back injury.