The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for their 2024 season opener against the Atlanta Falcons on the road. While the game promises to be a tough challenge, many fans are hopeful for a winning start in Atlanta. However, there was some concerning news on Thursday: Steelers starting quarterback Russell Wilson was limited in practice.
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Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson prepares to make a throw as the team practices during offseason activities at the UPMC Sports Complex in Pittsburgh, PA.
Wilson is still dealing with calf tightness that began at the start of training camp, which forced him to miss several early practices. The injury occurred while he was pushing a sled during the conditioning test before camp. Although calf injuries can be problematic for a 35-year-old quarterback, Mike Tomlin seemed unconcerned. In fact, teammate Van Jefferson didn't even notice Wilson's limitations during practice.
In addition to Russell Wilson’s calf tightness, keep an eye on Darnell Washington and a knee issue that popped up today and kept him out of practice.
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) September 5, 2024
Some good news, though, Troy Fautanu, Jaylen Warren and Cory Trice Jr. were all full participants pic.twitter.com/34PLI5DOHx
In addition to Wilson's situation, Steeler Nation also spotted another new name on the practice report. Tight end Darnell Washington did not practice on Thursday due to a knee injury that emerged suddenly. This injury is certainly something to monitor closely, as having Washington at full strength will be crucial for the Steelers if they want to secure a victory to start the season.
AP
Steelers' Darnell Washington walks off the field with his teammate Calvin Austin III all smiles.
Washington is entering his second season with the Steelers. In 2023, he was targeted just 10 times, catching seven passes for 61 yards. Despite his limited role in the passing game as a rookie, Washington has much more potential than his 10 targets suggest. With Arthur Smith now at the helm and improved quarterback play expected, he’s poised for a much larger role in 2024.
The Steelers drafted Washington for his impressive 6'7", 264-pound frame and athleticism. Known for his strong blocking skills, he has the potential to become a dominant tight end if he can develop his receiving game. Steelers fans are hopeful he will make a significant leap in his second season, but maintaining his health will be crucial to reaching that potential.
Steelers Also Receive Positive Updates In Latest Practice Report
The Steelers received some positive updates from the practice report on Thursday. Troy Fautanu, Jaylen Warren, and Cory Trice Jr. were all full participants. Fautanu, who had been struggling with a knee injury from the first preseason game against the Houston Texans, was held out of subsequent practices, but seems to be recovering well. It's great news to have him back as a full participant.
AP
Steelers' Troy Fautanu smiles as he gets introduced to the team.
Warren, who sustained a slight hamstring injury in the second preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, reported that he should be ready for Week 1 against the Falcons. Trice’s full participation is also encouraging news for the team.
Nothing new here, but Isaac Seumalo, Logan Lee, and Roman Wilson did not participate in practice. Seumalo is expected to miss up to a month, and the Steelers are eager to get him back as soon as possible, given his veteran leadership and status as one of their top linemen. Roman's status for Week 1 remains uncertain. The team would love to have their rookie wide receiver available.
While the start of the season is generally the best time for health, the situation for Pittsburgh hasn’t been ideal. The key concern today is Washington's injury. Steelers fans will be hoping he was held out merely as a precaution and will be fully ready for the game against the Falcons.
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