Pittsburgh Review

The Steelers will face the Indianapolis Colts today at Lucas Oil Stadium without several key players. Coach Mike Tomlin emphasized focusing on available players rather than those who are inactive.

Linebacker Alex Highsmith, running back Jaylen Warren, tight end MyCole Pruitt, and guard Isaac Seumalo are all out due to injuries. Cornerback Darius Rush and receiver Roman Wilson are also inactive, with Russell Wilson listed as the third quarterback.

Nick Herbig and DeMarvin Leal will step up in Highsmith's absence. Herbig stated, "I think if you want to be an elite player, and play on an elite level, you've got to play all three downs." He previously stepped in against the Chargers, finishing with two sacks.

Leal has been working at both defensive line and outside linebacker positions. Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin noted Leal's growth: "A big thing with him in terms of how he approaches his job and the consistency with which he tries to do his job is a change."

Linebacker T.J. Watt expressed confidence in Leal: "He's gotten live in game reps at both end and outside linebacker. So, we're comfortable with that."

Jaylen Warren remains sidelined by a knee injury from last week's game against the Chargers. Cordarrelle Patterson is expected to step up behind Najee Harris if needed. Harris praised Patterson: "C.P. is a future Hall of Famer."

Patterson described himself as versatile: "I feel like I could play any position on the football field."

On the offensive line, Isaac Seumalo returned to practice but won't be active today. Guards Mason McCormick and Spencer Anderson are expected to see time.

McCormick expressed readiness: "I have worked really hard to put myself into this position."

The Steelers elevated defensive back Thomas Graham Jr. and running back Aaron Shampklin from the practice squad due to injuries.

Graham was signed to a Reserve/Future contract at the end of 2023 and added to the practice squad this season. Shampklin joined the team through a Reserve/Future contract at the end of 2023 after stints with other teams.

The full list of inactives includes:

Steelers Inactives

- No. 3 QB Russell Wilson (3rd QB)

- No. 10 WR Roman Wilson

- No. 21 CB Darius Rush

- No. 30 RB Jaylen Warren

- No. 56 LB Alex Highsmith

- No. 73 OG Isaac Seumalo

- No. 81 TE MyCole Pruitt

Colts Inactives

- No. 4 QB Sam Ehlinger (3rd QB)

- No. 6 WR Anthony Gould

- No. 23 CB Kenny Moore II

- No. 51 DE Kwity Paye

- No. 73 T Blake Freeland

- No. 78 C Ryan Kelly

- No. 92 DE Genard Avery

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