Steelers lose two key young defenders on back-to-back plays late vs. Ravens

The Pittsburgh Steelers have had a typical rivalry slugfest with the Baltimore Ravens. Both teams have played top-tier defense, have jawed back and forth throughout the game, and have sustained some unfortunate injuries.

After a Russell Wilson redzone turnover, the Steelers lost two key young defenders on consecutive plays. First, Joey Porter Jr. limped off the sideline after a first-down run by Lamar Jackson favoring what appeared to be his right leg. The second was defensive lineman Keanu Benton, who appeared to have injured his left leg.

For Porter, the second-year corner left the game for a single play earlier in the game. While the leg injury has clearly affected him throughout the game, Porter has had a fairly solid game. He has been a bit handsy, as usual, but he hasn't allowed any big plays or drawn any game-changing penalties as he did last week.

For Benton, he's had a quieter day, but he's tallied three tackles.

Neither player's injury was replayed by the CBS broadcast and neither player has been categorized for a potential return to the game.

With Porter out, James Pierre will see more action at cornerback. In place of Benton, Isiahh Loudermilk will pick up the slack.

While the Ravens haven't been consistent with their 2024 offensive production throughout the contest, the Steelers can't afford to let these injuries dictate the rest of the game.

We'll continue to monitor both players' statuses as more information becomes available.