2 min read • January 05, 2021
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Quarterbacks - Ben Roethlisberger has pushed through injuries to his throwing elbow and both knees this year, and has played with grit through it all. Now, he is being rested in Week 17 and Mason Rudolph will take snaps under center. While Rudolph may not stop their late-season skid, this rest could prove crucial to Big Ben down the stretch.
Running Backs - James Conner missed two games with COVID, but this is not an issue as the Steelers approach the playoffs. However, his recent quad injury that forced him out of Week 15 is worth keeping an eye on. Overall, he has had a solid campaign despite all this, he will continue to contribute as the team’s primary back.
Offensive Lineman - The Steelers’ offensive line has had a tough year with injury. They started off below strength as right guard David DeCastro missed the first two games of the season with a knee injury, and he also dealt with a groin injury, missing a game following that. They immediately lost right tackle Zach Banner in Week One with a torn ACL, and have just now lost guard Matt Feiler to a torn pectoral. Maurkice Pouncey has also missed Week 13 on the Reserve/COVID list, but this is not a major concern. Overall, this unit has taken some big losses and though DeCastro and Pouncey are ready for the playoffs, the losses of Feiler and Banner can’t be ignored.
Linebackers - Pittsburgh’s linebacking corps has been decimated by injury this year. Though TJ Watt is the star of this group, his supporting cast has fallen away, as Bud Dupree and Devin Bush have torn their ACL’s. Robert Spillane (knee), and Ulysees Gilbert III (ankle) are also on injured reserve and unlikely to return, while Marcus Allen (foot) and Vince Williams (COVID) also missed time this year.
Cornerbacks - Number one corner Joe Haden is in danger of missing the Steelers wild card game as he was placed on the Reserve/COVID-19 list. He has been healthy all year and will be a big loss if unable to join the Steelers during their Wild Card game.
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