Brett Keisel injury: Steelers defensive end doubtful to return with triceps injury

A bad afternoon may get a lot worse.

The Steelers saw defensive end Brett Keisel go down with a reported triceps injury in the third quarter of a game they were trailing 28-13 to the New Orleans Saints. The team said he was doubtful to return.

With that specific of an injury, and knowing triceps tears typically require significant rehabilitation time, there's a reason for concern that Keisel, a long-time fan favorite who was playing well against New Orleans, may be done for the season. And there may not be another season.

He was replaced by Stephon Tuitt as Cam Thomas and Dan McCullers have been filling in for injured Steve McLendon.

It's another starter out for the Steelers, deep into the first game back for cornerback Ike Taylor and safety Troy Polamalu. Linebacker Ryan Shazier missed another game and the help of any of them may have been useful in a bad defensive performance for the Steelers in Week 13.