Report: Maurkice Pouncey's return to Steelers could be delayed even longer

Players being held out of the lineup has been an ongoing trend for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2015. Whether it was injuries to players like Shaun Suisham ending their season, suspensions to Le'Veon Bell and Martavis Bryant, or lesser injuries to Ben Roethlisberger and Maurkice Pouncey. Any way you slice it, the Steelers have been a resilient group which has shown the ability to overcome such losses and still have a winning record heading into Week 6.

One of those players named above might see their return to the team delayed, and that is center Maurkice Pouncey. According to Rand Getlin of the NFL Network, Pouncey had complications with his injured ankle and is expected to undergo another surgery, possibly delaying his return.

#Steelers OL Maurkice Pouncey is experiencing complications from his ankle injury, is expected to undergo another surgery, sources said.

— Rand Getlin (@Rand_Getlin) October 15, 2015

While Pouncey is currently on IR, designated to return, there are fears that he may miss more of the season than initially anticipated.

— Rand Getlin (@Rand_Getlin) October 15, 2015

Pouncey was placed on the Injured Reserve, designated to return list, which means he has to sit out 8 weeks before he is eligible return. Pouncey's return to the team might be delayed longer than expected with the complications he is experiencing.

The Steelers have won 3 games without Pouncey, but his absence in the lineup is noticeable as Cody Wallace continues to struggle in run blocking as well as pass protection. The team has yet to make a statement in regards to Pouncey's situation and possible return, but with the 8 week mark quickly approaching Mike Tomlin will likely be updating his situation following the Arizona Cardinals game in Week 6.