Steelers injuries heading into Week 9 could have dramatic impact on the offense

The Pittsburgh Steelers were victorious in Week 8 after beating the Miami Dolphins on Monday Night Football, but the win took its toll on the team from an injury standpoint. Several players, including starters, left the game with injuries which could impact the upcoming Week 9 game vs. the Indianapolis Colts.

During his weekly press conference, Mike Tomlin addressed the injuries the team faces on a short week before the Colts come to Heinz Field Sunday at 1:00 p.m. ET.

There was no position hurt more than the running back position. Going into the game the Steelers’ depth chart was James Conner, Benny Snell Jr. and Trey Edmunds, in that order. When the game ended Edmunds was the only available runner.

Tomlin stated James Conner (shoulder) is in the process of being evaluated, but did acknowledge he will likely be limited early in the week. However, he added even if he is limited he could still play on Sunday since he is a veteran in the system. As for Benny Snell (knee), he too is being evaluated and also may be limited; however, if he is limited he might not be available since he is young and lacks the experience needed to play on limited practice time.

Many are wondering if Jaylen Samuels (knee) will be able to get back on the field if Conner and Snell can’t play, and Tomlin said Samuels’ availability is coming right on time. He mentioned Samuels was given a clean bill of health last week, and will be ready to go in this upcoming Week 9 game.

Tomlin labeled Maurkice Pouncey’s calf injury as minor, but spoke of Ramon Foster (concussion) being in the NFL’s concussion protocol and what that means. Since no one knows if/when Foster will be released from the protocol, the team will make other plans at guard with B.J. Finney preparing with the starters.

There were two other injuries new to the list, and both were labeled as minor. Daniel McCullers suffered an ankle injury during the game, and rookie linebacker Ulysees Gilbert III was inactive Monday due to having back spasms last week which held him out of the lineup.

The Steelers will have their first practice Wednesday, and the injury report will be extremely telling as the team prepares for a huge game this Sunday. Stay tuned to BTSC for the latest news and notes surrounding the black-and-gold.