Pittsburgh Steelers starting cornerback Donte Jackson was added to the team’s injury report on Wednesday as a limited participant in practice due to a back issue. This injury is particularly concerning as it has caused Jackson to miss games in the past, including the December 15th loss to the Philadelphia Eagles and a game against the Baltimore Ravens just a week later. His limited participation in practice raises questions about his availability for upcoming games, including the crucial regular-season finale.
Alongside Jackson, the other starting cornerback, Joey Porter Jr., also dealt with an injury. Porter had to leave the game against the Ravens after the first half due to a knee problem. However, there is positive news regarding his condition, as Porter has been able to fully practice on Wednesday for the second day in a row, and it’s expected that he will be ready to play in Saturday’s final regular-season matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals.
This injury situation has been a significant concern for the Steelers, as they haven’t had both of their primary outside cornerbacks on the field together since their December 8th game against the Cleveland Browns. In their absence, James Pierre and Cory Trice have stepped up to fill the gap. While they have done their best to manage in this challenging situation, having both starting cornerbacks available would be a significant boost for the team heading into their final game of the regular season.
In addition to Jackson’s injury, several other key players participated in practice on Wednesday. Running back Jaylen Warren, who has been dealing with rib issues, was a full participant, as were depth receiver Ben Skowronek, who had been nursing a hip injury, and backup quarterback Justin Fields, who has been managing an abdominal issue. While Skowronek did not play in the game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Fields remained in an “emergency” No. 3 QB role for the second consecutive week.
Meanwhile, three players who had returned to practice on Tuesday were listed with the same injury statuses on Wednesday. Receiver Roman Wilson, who had been dealing with a hamstring issue, participated fully. Inside linebacker Cole Holcomb, recovering from a knee injury, and rookie defensive lineman Logan Lee, who has a calf issue, were both limited participants in practice.
With the Steelers fighting for playoff positioning, the availability of their key players, especially Jackson and Porter, will be crucial for the team as they look to close out the regular season on a high note.
