The Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Baltimore Ravens in the final and arguably most exciting regular-season game on Sunday night, claiming the AFC North title and punching their ticket to the playoffs. It was a statement win not only for head coach Mike Tomlin, who has lost numerous big games as of late, but also veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who is in his first season with the franchise after two extremely dissapointing seasons with the New York Jets.
Unfortunately, the win may end up being a costly one. After taking a hit, Rodgers went to the sidelines gingerly nursing his left wrist, which he broke earlier in the season.
Now, the Steelers’ injury report has confirmed that Rodgers is indeed still dealing with the lingering effects of the wrist injury, meaning Rodgers will have to be extra wary of worsening the injury during the playoffs.
Tomlin addressed the team’s overall health with reporters, per the Steelers’ official website.
“In-game, we got some bumps and bruises associated with play that may limit some people at the early portions of week,” Tomlin said. “Thankfully we came out of it relatively well.”
“Everyone that returned to action last week, from T.J. to Isaac Seumalo to Calvin Austin, James Pierre, Brandin Echols all were able to participate without any steps backwards,” he continued. “So, thankful for that.
“Relatively healthy group as we lean in on a single elimination tournament.”
Tomlin also addressed the return of wide receiver DK Metcalf, who wasn’t injured, but whose return from suspension is just as welcome.
“Certainly, awesome to have DK back,” said Tomlin. “We’re not going to exhale and think that DK automatically with his presence is going to be a difference or the difference.
“Football is the ultimate team game. It’s going to require great effort from all parties involved, but certainly excited about doing it with him. I know that he’s happy to be back. He’s happy to be in this tournament. He’s ready to go to work.”
Still, for Metcalf to be successful, he’ll need his quarterback to be sharp. It’ll be interesting to see if the injury worsens in Pittsburgh’s wild-card game against the Houston Texans.
About Qwame Skinner
Qwame Skinner has loved both writing and sports his entire life. In addition to his sports coverage at Comeback Media, Qwame writes novels, and his debut; The First Casualty, an adult fantasy, is out now.