Pittsburgh Steelers Face Cleveland Browns Without Key Linebacker
As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare to take on the Cleveland Browns, they face the challenge of doing so without linebacker Alex Highsmith. His absence throws a spotlight on pass rushers Preston Smith and Nick Herbig, who are expected to shoulder increased responsibilities as they aim to penetrate the Browns' offensive line.
Cleveland Browns Ready with Key Players
The Cleveland Browns, meanwhile, have received a boost with the clearance of two critical players—David Njoku and Myles Garrett—to participate against the Steelers. Njoku, who has been a full participant in practice sessions, will bring needed stability to the offensive side. Garrett, who practiced in a limited capacity, remains a pivotal component of the Browns' defense as he looks to make an impact on the field.
Carolina Panthers Dealing with Injury Concerns
The Carolina Panthers are managing injury concerns of their own, opting to keep Miles Sanders and Jadeveon Clowney sidelined during practice sessions. Sanders is nursing an ankle issue, while Clowney deals with a knee concern. Despite these setbacks, Jaycee Horn and Adam Thielen managed limited participation, ensuring some level of preparedness as the Panthers navigate their injury-plagued roster.
Updates Around the League
Across the league, several other teams are navigating injury landscapes. The Kansas City Chiefs' Isiah Pacheco participated on a limited basis, though Kareem Hunt and JuJu Smith-Schuster were fully active in their practice regimen. Similarly, in Minnesota, Sam Darnold's limited practice due to a foot injury is offset by the positive news of Aaron Jones, recovering completely from a previous rib injury.
The Chicago Bears are dealing with multiple concerns, as D'Andre Swift's groin injury has kept him sidelined during practice. Offensive lineman Teven Jenkins has had limited participation, creating additional uncertainties for their roster depth.
Illness and injuries have also impacted the Tennessee Titans, where Calvin Ridley, L'Jarius Sneed, and Tyjae Spears all missed practice. These setbacks raise questions about the Titans’ readiness heading into their upcoming matchups.
Team-Specific Training Situation Highlights
For the Houston Texans, both Will Anderson Jr. and Derek Stingley Jr. took part in practice on a limited basis, raising hopes that they might see the field despite their injuries. In contrast, the Indianapolis Colts have had to proceed without Bernhard Raimann as he missed recent practices.
The New England Patriots have seen limited participation from Kyle Dugger and Austin Hooper, while Cole Strange, returning from injured reserve, also practiced on a limited basis. The Miami Dolphins face uncertainty as well, with Terron Armstead absent and key players like Tyreek Hill, Jalen Ramsey, and Raheem Mostert showing varying degrees of practice activity.
Returns and Sidelines: Key Players to Watch
In Tampa Bay, the Buccaneers are optimistic about wide receiver Mike Evans making a return. Meanwhile, the New York Giants report full participation from their roster, aside from Dexter Lawrence and Kayvon Thibodeaux, who were limited in practice.
The Washington Commanders are missing Marshon Lattimore due to a hamstring issue, adding complications to their defensive strategy. Additionally, the Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers are busy managing injuries to star players, such as CeeDee Lamb and Christian McCaffrey, as they try to maintain their competitive edge.
With each team grappling with health-related adjustments, the upcoming games promise to test depth charts and the resilience of squads striving to overcome these challenges. As players and teams forge ahead, the landscape of the league continues to evolve with every practice and injury report.