Key Steelers Starter Misses Practice with Injury

The Pittsburgh Steelers continued their week of prep against the Ravens with some positive injury news. Elandon Roberts and Minkah Fitzpatrick both returned to practice in a limited capacity.

Fitzpatrick has missed the team’s last two games with a left knee injury he suffered in the second quarter against the Indianapolis Colts on Dec. 16. This was his first practice after he resumed running last week.

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With usual backup Damontae Kazee suspended, practice squad member Eric Rowe has been starting at free safety in Fitzpatrick’s absence.

Roberts suffered a left pectoral muscle injury during the team’s Week 16 win over the Cincinnati Bengals. This was his first practice back since that injury. Roberts was the third of the team’s starting inside linebacker trio to be lost to injury this season.

Myles Jack, Mark Robinson, and Mykal Walker manned the position against the Seahawks on Sunday.

Trenton Thompson suffered a neck stinger against the Colts, and though he was able to return to that game, he missed the next two. He has returned to practice, but said on Friday that he has not been fully cleared by the medical staff and is more realistically targeting the first round of the playoffs for a return. He was limited on Wednesday.

“I would push for the playoffs,” Thompson said. “If we get into the first round, I would do my best, with the doctors and trainers, to try and get cleared to play and have whatever role I might have.”

Kenny Pickett took a step forward and practiced in full for the first time since December 4th in his recovery from ankle surgery. Meanwhile, Najee Harris (knee) took a step back and did not practice. However, that is likely a rest day, and he should be expected to play.

Cam Heyward (groin) remained limited. Meanwhile, Isaac Seumalo (shoulder) took a step up and was a full participant. T.J. Watt and Larry Ogunjobi received rest days.

STEELERS INJURY REPORT