The Pittsburgh Steelers have been through enough injuries in the first half of the 2024 season and we don't want to see any more. But we knew their chippy battle against the Baltimore Ravens was sure to come with a few more bumps and bruises.
In the second half of Pittsburgh's Week 11 contest, cornerback Joey Porter Jr. appeared to have tweaked something in his leg while making a tackle. Fortunately, he quickly returned to the field. Then a scarier injury scare occurred.
Late in the game, starting nose tackle Keeanu Benton went to the ground after a play, clutching his knee. Eventually, he was able to pick himself up and walk gingerly to the sideline, but fans feared the prognosis. Benton is an excellent second-year player and a cornerstone piece along the interior defensive line.
Thankfully, it looks like Benton avoided disaster.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin spoke to the media on Monday and confirmed that all players who sustained injuries in Pittsburgh's win against the Ravens won't be an issue going forward. This includes Keeanu Benton.
Tomlin stated that both Benton and Porter are fine and should play on Thursday as the Steelers play the Browns on Thursday Night Football in Week 11.
Steelers need to make make a quick turnaround for TNF in Week 12
Playing on Sunday and immediately preparing to travel for Thursday Night Football isn't easy. The Steelers will soon pack their bags for Ohio as they are on the road against the Cleveland Browns on a short week.
In many cases, players who sustain injuries on a short week either aren't able to go for the following game or suit up at less than full strength. According to Tomlin, this shouldn't be an issue for the Steelers. Not only are Benton and Porter expected to play, but Pittsburgh could also be getting back tight end MyCole Pruitt and cornerback Cory Trice this week.
The Steelers can't take this game lightly. This team has been winless in Cleveland since 2017, back when Ben Roethlisberger was the quarterback for Pittsburgh. After an expectedly chippy and physical game against the Ravens, it's time to soak up the ice baths and apply the Icy Hot.
Pittsburgh is back on deck for a must-have game against an underwhelming Browns team, and it's good to know that their pivotal players who were banged up against the Ravens won't miss any time.