Mike Tomlin Head Coach | Pittsburgh Steelers Website
Mike Tomlin Head Coach | Pittsburgh Steelers Website
The Pittsburgh Steelers will face the Cleveland Browns tonight with several players unavailable due to injuries. Linebacker Alex Highsmith remains inactive, missing his second consecutive game following an ankle injury against the Washington Commanders. His absence requires linebackers Preston Smith and Nick Herbig to fill in once again.
Coach Mike Tomlin discussed the previous week's distribution of defensive snaps between Smith and Herbig, attributing it partly to fewer defensive plays. "We were getting off the field. We were possessing the ball some on offense," said Tomlin. "There weren't as many defensive snaps to go around."
Herbig's performance has been promising for a young player in his second year. "He's a big-time player," Tomlin remarked, acknowledging Herbig's potential and contributions despite limited experience. He noted that Herbig trains alongside seasoned players like T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith.
Browns Coach Kevin Stefanski also addressed Smith's role in the Steelers' defense, recognizing him as a formidable opponent. "He's playing on both sides," said Stefanski, describing Smith as strong and effective against both run and pass plays.
In addition to Highsmith, other inactive Steelers include receiver Scotty Miller, running back Jonathan Ward, guard Max Scharping, with Kyle Allen designated as the third quarterback.
The full list of inactives is provided:
Steelers Inactives:
- QB Kyle Allen (3rd QB)
- WR Scott Miller
- RB Jonathan Ward
- LB Alex Highsmith
- OG Max Scharping
Browns Inactives:
- QB Bailey Zappe (3rd QB)
- RB D'Onta Foreman
- CB Chigozie Anusiem
- T Jedrick Wills Jr.
- TE Geoff Swaim
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