Phil Matusz Head Strength And Conditioning Coach | Pittsburgh Steelers Website
Phil Matusz Head Strength And Conditioning Coach | Pittsburgh Steelers Website
The Pittsburgh Steelers will face the New York Giants tonight with three players sidelined due to injuries. Center Zach Frazier, linebacker Nick Herbig, and running back/returner Cordarrelle Patterson have been ruled out. Quarterback Justin Fields is designated as the third quarterback for the game.
Ryan McCollum will start at center for the second consecutive week in place of Frazier, who is dealing with an ankle injury. The offensive line has been significantly affected by injuries this season, leading to five different starting combinations over seven games. Tackle Dan Moore Jr. acknowledged the challenges but praised younger players like Mason McCormick for stepping up.
"It's crazy when you think about it," said Moore Jr., highlighting the unexpected contributions from players who weren't initially expected to start. He expressed confidence in McCollum's ability, noting his experience and demeanor.
Isaac Seumalo, who missed four games earlier this season due to a pectoral injury, emphasized the team's "next man up" mentality instilled by Coach Mike Tomlin. "It's an opportunity," Seumalo said, emphasizing readiness regardless of circumstances.
Running back Najee Harris commended the depth and resilience of the offensive line amidst their injury struggles. "These past two weeks showed how good our line is," he stated after achieving two consecutive 100-yard games behind them.
On defense, Alex Highsmith's return from a groin injury provides a boost as Herbig remains out. Highsmith felt positive about his performance against the Jets and looks forward to continued improvement.
The Steelers also made roster adjustments on Monday, signing running back Jonathan Ward from the practice squad and elevating receiver Brandon Johnson to the active roster while placing Roman Wilson on the Reserve/Injured List. Ward has previously played in 46 NFL games across several teams including Arizona Cardinals and Tennessee Titans.
Johnson has appeared in 20 NFL games since joining as an undrafted free agent with experience both on practice squads and active rosters over two seasons.
Tonight's inactive list includes:
Steelers:
- QB Justin Fields (3rd QB)
- CB C.J. Henderson
- LB Nick Herbig
- C Zach Frazier
- RB/KR Cordarrelle Patterson
Giants:
- P Jamie Gillan
- QB Tommy DeVito (3rd QB)
- CB Adoree' Jackson
- CB Cor'Dale Flott
- LB Ty Summers
- G Jake Kubas
- NT Jordan Riley
For fans eager to follow every moment of tonight’s action, NFL+ offers live streaming options including local and primetime regular season games on mobile devices along with additional content like NFL RedZone and NFL Network.