clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Markus Wheaton broke his pinkie finger, status uncertain for Week 6 vs. Jets

Steelers rookie WR Markus Wheaton broke his pinkie in the Steelers' 34-27 loss to Minnesota in Week 4, and underwent surgery to repair it.

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Lost in the trade news was the broken pinkie finger of rookie wide receiver Markus Wheaton.

Wheaton had his first three career catches against the Vikings, with five targets, but suffered the broken finger amid his most productive game to date.

The Tribune-Review noted Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said Wheaton wouldn't be further evaluated until the stitches were removed. The Steelers begin the four days of their mini bye-week vacation Thursday, not returning to the South Side facility until Monday.

The Steelers (0-4) take on the New York Jets (2-2) at MetLife Stadium Oct. 13 in Week 6. Wheaton presumably will be evaluated heading into that game. While he's seen rising snap counts in each of the Steelers games so far this season, he only has five total targets, and and injury of that nature wouldn't likely keep him out for an extended period of time - if he was to miss any time at all.

If he can't play, however, Derek Moye - inactive for the last two games - would likely dress in his place. Moye has a touchdown catch this season in limited action.

More from Behind the Steel Curtain: