Steelers’ Pouncey, Smith-Schuster, Watt Evaluated for Injuries after New England Loss

Four Steelers starters left Sunday night’s season opener against the New England Patriots with injuries, and only one of them returned to the field, providing a perhaps even more bleak outlook than the 33-3 final score.

Outside linebacker T.J. Watt was ruled out for the game after leaving with a hip injury and was replaced by Anthony Chickillo.

Maurkice Pouncey (ankle) and JuJu Smith-Schuster (toe) also did not return after leaving with injuries late in the fourth quarter.

Smith-Schuster told reporters after the game that he expects to play in Week 2. Dr. David Chao, who reports on NFL injuries for the San Diego Union-Tribune, said Smith-Schuster likely has sprained a joint in his big toe.

Cornerback Joe Haden suffered a shoulder injury and later returned.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin did not provide an update on the status of any of his injured players after the game.

“We’ll get those things evaluated and I’ll have more information for you on Tuesday,” he said.

The Steelers were already playing without free safety Sean Davis, who missed the game with an ankle injury.