The Pittsburgh Steelers are looking to rebound from a three-game losing streak with a divisional home victory against the Cincinnati Bengals, who are desperate for one more win and a chance at a postseason berth.
The Steelers were shorthanded in a variety of ways throughout the losing streak that was encompassed in an 11-day period. George Pickens, Joey Porter Jr., DeShon Elliott, and Donte Jackson all missed time, leaving Pittsburgh vulnerable against elite competition.
Luckily, Mike Tomlin's team is a touch closer to full strength in the regular season finale. The Bengals are banged up, though many of the players on Cincinatti's injury report this week are dealing with lingering issues, such as quarterback Joe Burrow's wrist and knee injuries, which won't keep him out of the contest.
Some new names will show up for Pittsburgh, notably Cole Holcomb and Roman Wilson. Both are nearing a return to the field but will be unavailable for the regular season finale.
Full Inactives List for Steelers in Week 18
Player | Status |
|---|---|
Roman Wilson | Out - Hamstring |
Cole Holcomb | Out - Knee |
Logan Lee | Out - Calf |
Kyle Allen | Inactive - *Emergency 3rd QB |
Scottie Miller | Inactive |
Donte Jackson | Out - Back |
Isaiahh Loudermilk | Inactive |
Dean Lowry | Inactive |
Offensive Impacts
Roman Wilson's absence isn't particularly surprising, though it remains disappointing. At least the door is open for him to contribute in the playoffs. Otherwise, the Steelers' offense is healthy and will look to get back on track after a tough three-game stretch.
Defensive Impacts
Like Roman Wilson, Cole Holcomb's absence is to be expected, though he is nearing his return from a devastating knee injury last year. Nonetheless, Pittsburgh's inside linebacker group is a respectable unit.
Pittsburgh will feel the absence of Donte Jackson in the defensive secondary. While he's been inconsistent this season, his experience provides a bit more confidence in favor of Cory Trice Jr. and James Pierre, who will pick up the reps in relief.
The Steelers will be a touch shorthanded on the defensive line as Isaiahh Loudermilk was a late scratch alongside Dean Lowry.
Full Inactives for Bengals in Week 18
Player | Status |
|---|---|
Jermaine Burton | Out |
Sam Hubbard | Out - Knee |
Charlie Jones | Out - Groin |
Chase Brown | Out - Ankle |
Isaiah Thomas | Inactive |
Andrew Steuber | Inactive |
Tanner McLachlin | Inactive |
What to Know
Sam Hubbard is a notable name, though the Bengals have gone without him on the edge of the trenches for a few weeks now. Cincinnati would need a deep playoff run to get him back.
However, the Bengals will miss Chase Brown at running back, which should ease the threat against Pittsburgh's defense. While Cincinnati creates a lot of fireworks through the passing game, Brown plays a significant role in keeping the Bengal offense balanced. Khalil Herbert will pick up the reps, though he's not as dynamic as Brown.
Tee Higgins will be active after being limited in practice all week while dealing with an ankle and knee injury. Higgins had his best game of the season last week against the Denver Broncos.