Steelers Injury Updates: Zach Banner, Stephon Tuitt Remain Out of Practice

PITTSBURGH — Right tackle Zach Banner and defensive end Stephon Tuitt were among the players that did not participate in the Steelers’ practice on Monday, though a firm outlook was not given for any of the team’s injured players.

Banner was seen watching practice in workout clothes after missing the team’s preseason-ending trip to Carolina on Friday. Head coach Mike Tomlin said after the game that he was left in Pittsburgh for treatment. Banner has been working his way slowly back into shape after undergoing ACL surgery last fall.

With Banner out, usual left tackle Chukwuma Okorafor took reps at right tackle and rookie Dan Moore Jr. worked at left tackle, but Tomlin gave no indication that arrangement might stick for the season opener in Buffalo a week from Sunday.

“I’ll give you guys an injury report next week on Banner, Tuitt and others that you’re going to ask about,” Tomlin said.

Left guard Kevin Dotson said that he doesn’t know if Banner will be ready to play it the opener, but feels comfortable with whoever ends up on his left side.

Veteran nose tackle Tyson Alualu added that he expects Tuitt will be ready for the opener, but gave no hints as to the issue that he’s been working through. Tuitt spent a significant part of training camp working solo while getting back into shape after missing some time following the death of his brother. He did not participate at all in most of the final weeks of camp.

Other Steelers players dealing with injuries include linebacker Marcus Allen and quarterback Josh Dobbs (turf toe), who were injured at Carolina, running back Anthony McFarland Jr., who also missed the trip with an undisclosed ailment, and slot corner Arthur Maulet, who did not play against the Panthers after suffering an ankle injury in the Detroit Lions game. 

Long snapper Cameron Kanaday missed the preseason finale with an undisclosed illness.