The Pittsburgh Steelers head into Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Vikings without linebacker Alex Highsmith, who was ruled out early this week and did not travel to Dublin, Ireland.
Cornerback Joey Porter Jr. will miss his third straight game due to a hamstring injury. Despite injuries, the depth added in the offseason continues to pay dividends for the Steelers secondary.
“Everybody that stepped in has made a lot of plays … Getting guys back … gives us more momentum.” — Safety Juan Thornhill
One standout replacement is cornerback Brandin Echols, who has been described as a “plug and play” player, stepping in seamlessly and making big plays, including key interceptions.
Running back Jaylen Warren was listed inactive but recent reports suggest he may play through a knee issue. To back up the running game, the Steelers elevated Trey Sermon from the practice squad to the active roster. Sermon brings experience with 43 NFL games and 5 starts over four seasons.
Full List of Steelers Inactives
| Number | Position | Name |
|---|---|---|
| 24 | CB | Joey Porter Jr. |
| 30 | RB | Jaylen Warren |
| 56 | LB | Alex Highsmith |
| 71 | G | Andrus Peat |
| 93 | DE | Esezi Otomewo |
Vikings Inactives for Week 4
| Number | Position | Name |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | QB | Desmond Ridder (3rd QB) |
| 9 | QB | J.J. McCarthy |
| 43 | LB | Andrew Van Ginkel |
| 73 | OT | Walter Rouse |
| 74 | G | Donovan Jackson |
| 85 | TE | Ben Yurosek |
What to Watch
The absence of Highsmith and Porter Jr. places greater responsibility on Pittsburgh’s depth in the secondary and linebacker corps. If Jaylen Warren is limited, expect increased carries from Trey Sermon and other backs.
Minnesota will start Carson Wentz at quarterback in place of J.J. McCarthy, who remains sidelined. The Vikings’ offensive line will also miss Donovan Jackson, affecting their blocking schemes.
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