The Pittsburgh Steelers had some good news Sunday when they defeated the Cleveland Browns 21-18 in their regular season opener, but the news coming from head coach Mike Tomlin Tuesday might be just as sweet.
The news we are speaking of would be none other than the official diagnosis of defensive end Stephon Tuitt. Tuitt, who left the first quarter of the game against the Cleveland Browns with a biceps injury, avoided the dreaded season-ending biceps injury, per several reports. Tomlin confirmed those reports Tuesday stating he is “optimistic” about Tuitt’s return. However, he did state his short-term availability is in question, but will be taken day-by-day and to ensure he is safe to return.
This is phenomenal news for the Steelers, and the fact Tomlin reiterated it isn’t out of the picture for Tuitt to play Sunday vs. the Minnesota Vikings is a huge relief for the organization, and fan base, who thought the newly signed Tuitt could be done for the season.
In other injury news, the only other injury announced was a concussion for safety J.J. Wilcox. Wilcox left the game after making a big hit in the second half, and reported to the team Monday expressing concussion-like symptoms. He is now in the strict NFL concussion protocol, and how he progresses through the protocol will dictate his availability for the game Sunday.
Tomlin did mention Bud Dupree’s return to the field will be based on his ability to practice.
Therefore, stay tuned to BTSC as we cover not just the injuries, but all the news surrounding the Steelers heading into Week 2.