2. Health and prosperity
Injuries have had a lot to do with the position that the Steelers are currently in. Pittsburgh has lost a handful of pieces to the roster throughout the season. Key players like Juju Smith-Schuster, Tyson Alualu, and Stephon Tuitt have all been placed on the team’s injured reserved report. When a teammate gets injured, it is up to the next man to the depth chart to fill in and perform at the same level.
Most of the time, this ask is harder said than done. The absence of Pittsburgh’s starters has made it harder for the team to overcome tougher opponents. While opposing teams arrive ready to play, the Steelers are left hoping that their reserves will be enough.
Staying healthy will be important for the Steelers as they begin to fight their way into the AFC playoff picture. Having another player added to the injury report will only act as a roadblock for a team that cannot afford to get distracted this late in the season.