Injuries Shake Up Steelers' Lineup for Crucial Browns Matchup
Today's clash between the Steelers and the Cleveland Browns is already heating up, and not just because of the rivalry. The Steelers are facing a significant challenge as they take the field without key receiver Calvin Austin III, sidelined due to a shoulder injury that kept him out of practice all week. His absence was confirmed on Friday, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering how the team will adapt.
But here's where it gets interesting: Coach Mike Tomlin isn't sweating the absence. Instead, he's focusing on the opportunities it creates for other players. 'It's not about dwelling on who's missing,' Tomlin explained earlier this week. 'It's about elevating the roles of guys like Roman Wilson and Scotty Miller. I'm excited to see them step up and make the most of this chance.'
Tomlin's perspective highlights one of the most compelling aspects of a football season: adversity breeds opportunity. 'One player's setback is another's chance to shine,' he added, emphasizing the team's collective resilience.
Scotty Miller, in particular, is ready to seize the moment. 'You never know when your number will be called, but you have to be prepared,' Miller shared. 'I'm hoping to make the most of any chances I get this week.' Despite not having recorded a reception this season, Miller's experience—now in his seventh year—has taught him to stay ready. He recalled similar situations during his time with Tampa and Atlanta, where injuries or unexpected shifts in the lineup gave him the chance to step into larger roles.
And this is the part most people miss: Miller's journey underscores the unpredictable nature of a football season. 'You never know how things will unfold,' he said. 'But when you're prepared, those moments can lead to bigger opportunities.'
To bolster their receiving corps, the Steelers signed Ke'Shawn Williams from the practice squad to the 53-man roster. Williams, an undrafted free agent following the 2025 NFL Draft, brings a solid college resume to the table. During his career, he played in 59 games, starting 11, and amassed 2,640 all-purpose yards, including 1,833 receiving yards. His 2024 season at Indiana was particularly notable, with 39 receptions for 448 yards and five touchdowns. Before Indiana, Williams spent four seasons at Wake Forest, showcasing his versatility and reliability.
Controversial Take: Is Relying on Unproven Receivers a Risky Move?
While Tomlin's confidence in Wilson and Miller is commendable, some fans might argue that leaning on relatively unproven receivers in a critical game against the Browns is a gamble. After all, Miller hasn't recorded a reception this season, and Wilson is still finding his footing in the NFL. Could this decision backfire, or will it be a masterstroke that highlights the depth of the Steelers' roster? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—do you think this is a bold strategy or a risky one?
Full List of Inactives
Steelers Inactives:
- No. 19 WR Calvin Austin III
- No. 21 S Chuck Clark
- No. 71 G Andrus Peat
- No. 91 DL Logan Lee
- No. 98 DE DeMarvin Leal
Browns Inactives:
- No. 20 CB Jarrick Bernard-Converse
- No. 35 RB Raheim Sanders
- No. 51 DT Mike Hall Jr.
- No. 64 T Thayer Munford Jr.
- No. 70 G Zak Zinter
- No. 71 T Cornelius Lucas
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