The Steelers are still without Minkah Fitzpatrick as the All-Pro safety continues to nurse an ankle injury that he suffered against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday.
On Wednesday, Fitzpatrick did not practice and that has continued on Thursday, as the ankle injured continues to sideline him. Mike Tomlin did not seem concerned about Fitzpatrick’s status on Tuesday, but the practice participation on Friday will be important to see if he will suit up. Pittsburgh will need Minkah Fitzpatrick in order to slow down the Browns’ passing attack.
Meanwhile, Arthur Maulet (illness), Myles Jack (groin), and Larry Ogunjobi (toe) also missed their second straight day of practice. Jack aggravated his groin injury in the game against the Ravens while Ogunjobi dealt with the toe injury for weeks.
Kevin Dotson (shoulder) and Diontae Johnson (hip) were both upgraded to full practice on Thursday. Tre Norwood (hamstring) practiced for the first time since suffering the injury on Christmas Eve against the Las Vegas Raiders. That is a welcome sign.
Alex Highsmith (ankle) was a new addition to the injury report. He was limited on the day, so it seems that while he is nicked, it is not too serious. Cam Heyward took the day off on a veteran rest day. Najee Harris, who took a rest day on Wednesday, returned to practice on Thursday.