The Steelers have had some tough luck when it comes to injuries early in the year. Pittsburgh lost first-round pick Troy Fautanu for the season with a knee injury while center Nate Herbig sustained a season-ending shoulder injury before Week 1.
To make matters worse on the offensive line, James Daniels suffered an Achilles injury that ended his season after just four games, while numerous other players are dealing with injuries keeping them off the field.
The first Steelers injury report ahead of Week 5 doesn't offer any encouragement either.
Nine players showed up on the injury report on Wednesday, and five important players didn't participate in practice to begin the week.
Isaac Seumalo was a full participant today. A good sign as the Steelers hope to get him back vs. Cowboys - especially after losing Daniels.
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) October 2, 2024
Cordarrelle Patterson, Jaylen Warren, Nick Herbig, Alex Highsmith and MyCole Pruitt all did not practice
Keeanu Benton was limited pic.twitter.com/Aos30CmSU7
Running back Jaylen Warren and Cordarrelle Patterson both missed practice to begin the week. With the Steelers signing Aaron Shampklin to the active roster, it seems likely at least one of these running backs (if not both) will be unable to suit up against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 5.
Meanwhile, edge rusher Nick Herbig (ankle) was added to the Steelers' injury report this week. Herbig was promoted to a starting role in the absence of Alex Highsmith (groin), but he did not participate in practice on Wednesday. While we hope this is strictly precautionary, it would be a massive blow to Pittsburgh's pass rush if he is unable to go against Dallas this week.
Fortunately, left guard Isaac Seumalo was a full participant on Wednesday, and is eyeing a return in Week 5. His presence on the field couldn't come at a better time as James Daniels has officially been ruled out for the season.
Steelers must overcome injuries in Week 5
The Steelers aren't the only team dealing with injuries early in the week. Their Week 5 opponent, the Dallas Cowboys, were suddenly decimated with numerous injuries following Week 4. All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons suffered a high ankle sprain while Demarcus Lawrence was placed on IR with a foot injury.
Parsons did not practice to begin the week and is expected to miss the game after being spotted in a walking boot. Meanwhile, starting wide receiver Brandon Cooks has reportedly been ruled out against the Steelers this week due to an infection in his knee after a procedure.
Both teams have exhausted every bit of depth they have on the roster through the quarter mark of the season. After a loss in Week 4, the Steelers need to find a way to overcome their injuries and take advantage of a depleted Cowboys team to emerge victorious on Sunday Night Football.