Pittsburgh loses its top aerial threat as foot issues sideline the star playmaker. The offense must now lean on DK Metcalf to crack a stout New England defense.
The Pittsburgh Steelers will enter their Week 2 contest against the New England Patriots a little shorthanded.
On Friday, the Steelers ruled out cornerback Joey Porter Jr. for a back injury. Pittsburgh listed wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. as questionable to play New England because of a foot injury. He did not practice on Thursday or Friday.
Offensive tackle Troy Fautanu was listed as questionable to play after being a full participant on Friday.
Per Brooke Pryor of ESPN, the Steelers downgraded Pittman to out for Sunday's contest.
"Steelers have downgraded Michael Pittman Jr. (foot) to OUT for tomorrow’s game vs. NE," Pryor posted on X. "Pittman popped up on the injury report Wednesday and DNP Thursday and Friday.
"He had an undisclosed lower-body injury during training camp that forced him to miss a significant chunk of time."
Pittman led the Steelers in receiving in Pittsburgh's 20-13 win over the Atlanta Falcons in Week 1. He recorded three receptions for 58 yards. He'll be a big miss for quarterback Aaron Rodgers against a tough Patriots defense.
Earlier in the week, Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy said the passing game would be essential for his offense this week.
"We're going to trust our menu of offense, and we're going to line up and try to attack their defense the way we feel gives us the best chance to be successful," McCarthy said, via the Steelers' website.
"Nothing's changed with how we feel about throwing the ball short, long, intermediate, all that. It's important to have all those components of your pass game."
The Patriots have up 285 total yards to the Seattle Seahawks in a 13-10 loss in Week 1. The Seahawks turned to backup quarterback Drew Lock to lead the offense after Sam Darnold suffered an injury on the first drive.
Even with Darnold sidelined, wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba had a big night, recording eight receptions for 122 yards and a score.
Pittsburgh will need DK Metcalf to get going in Week 2 with Pittman ruled out. Metcalf recorded four receptions for 40 yards in Week 1.
