Steelers relatively healthy ahead of Chiefs matchup

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - DECEMBER 19: Pat Freiermuth #88 of the Pittsburgh Steelers carries the ball after a catch in the second quarter of the game against the Tennessee Titans at Heinz Field on December 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - DECEMBER 19: Pat Freiermuth #88 of the Pittsburgh Steelers carries the ball after a catch in the second quarter of the game against the Tennessee Titans at Heinz Field on December 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) /
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Anyone on the injury list can impact the season’s outcome this late in the season. Fortunately, the Steelers only have one serious injury this week.

A lack of injuries is a good sign for a team on the bubble to make the playoffs this season. Considering they play the Chiefs, they can use everyone they have as a victory will not come easy as Kansas City currently sits atop the AFC West after having a rough start to their season.

A win here greatly helps the Steelers’ playoff chances. Thankfully the Pittsburgh Steelers do not have to deal with their health heading into the game.

So here are the Steelers who appear on this week’s injury list:

Pat Freiermuth TE: Questionable (concussion)

It’s a disappointing injury this late in the season for a player who has had a great rookie season. Fortunately, he will be back by the Browns game unless there are unexpected complications. We will have to wait to see if he clears concussion protocol ahead of the Chiefs game, though. Freiermuth could be a game-time decision.

Chris Wormley Dl: Questionable (groin)

Wormley finds himself on the injury list this week after another groin injury for the Steelers. As of Wednesday, the Steelers held him out of practice. We will have to wait until Thursday or Friday to see if they still hold him out or if he returns to practice. If he returns to practice, he may play this weekend; otherwise, his fans will sorely miss him.

Ben Roethlisberger QB: Questionable (pectoral/ shoulder)

As old as Big Ben is, it’s not surprising he gets listed on the injury list every week. However, he takes a licking and keeps ticking. While being on the list, he still had a full practice, and considering the Steelers are struggling for a playoff spot barring a severe unexpected injury, he will not miss Sunday’s game.

Joe Haden CB: Questionable (coaches decision)

While on the injury list, it does not appear to be anything serious. Haden played against the Titans, and there is no reason to expect he will not play against the Chiefs, considering it was a coach’s decision to keep him out of practice.

Buddy Johnson LB: Questionable (foot)

Another listing of no consequence. Despite having a foot injury, he practiced Wednesday. There is no reason to expect him to miss Sunday’s contest with the Chiefs.

Kevin Rader TE: Questionable (Hip)

Usually, it would be concerning to have two tight ends on the injury list in one week.  The good news is you should not expect Rader to miss the game; he had a full practice Wednesday, and the Steelers expect him to take more snaps, especially if Freiermuth can not return to the lineup in time.

Isaiah Buggs DE: Questionable (ankle)

Another minor injury fans should have no concern over as Buggs also had a full practice Wednesday. No one should expect him to miss time as the Steelers will certainly need him against the Chiefs this weekend.

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This will be a difficult matchup for the Steelers as if the Steelers do not bring their A-game, Patrick Mahomes could pick the Steelers apart, or the Steelers can get demolished by their rushing game. Considering the Chiefs are relatively injury-free, the Steelers will need to pull out all the stops this weekend. Also, the Steelers need to hope they break out of their first-half touchdowns slump. You can always check the Steelers website for the latest injury news.