The Pittsburgh Steelers are already starting to get bit by the injury bug. Thankfully, it is not a vital offensive or defensive player, instead it is two guys who have been important to the special teams game. Tyler Matakevich was placed on injured reserve on Tuesday due to a hamstring injury, while Ben Skowronek was placed on injured reserve on Wednesday thanks to a shoulder injury. Both have been critical in the third phase of the game, but they will now both be missing for at least the next four contests.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Ben Skowronek ahead of Pittsburgh's Week 1 contest against the Atlanta Falcons.
Pittsburgh signed James Pierre to the practice squad on Tuesday, likely to prepare for both Matakevich and Skowronek to hit injured reserve. Skowronek had been playing gunner on the punt unit, which is one of the more important positions on special teams aside from the actual kicker or punter. Pierre has experience at gunner, but there are better options available who the Steelers can add now that Skowronek as officially been moved to injured reserve.
According to Tom Pelissero, former Steelers wide receiver and gunner, Miles Boykin worked out for the Seattle Seahawks, but the Steelers need to really consider bringing him back to Pittsburgh.
Notable workouts from the wire:#Bills worked out kickers Anders Carlson and Cade York#Texans worked out TE Irv Smith#Vikings worked out LB Kwon Alexander#Seahawks worked out QB Ian Book and WRs Miles Boykin and Denzel Mims
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) September 17, 2024
Boykin is a former third round pick from the 2019 NFL Draft. His career as a wide receiver hasn't quite worked out, but he has made a name for himself as a gunner and an elite special teamer. He spent the 2022 and 2023 seasons with the Steelers, but left in free agency after his contract expired following the 2023 season.
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Former Steelers receiver, Miles Boykin (13) makes a catch during a 2022 preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks.
Steelers Need To Bring Back Boykin To Fill Special Teams Hole
Boykin chose to sign with the New York Giants during the 2024 offseason, and things didn't work out for the veteran receiver. He didn't make the final roster, and has since been looking for a new home in the NFL. He would be an upgrade at the gunner position over Pierre. Boykin quickly broke out as one of the league's best gunners during his time with the Steelers, and Pittsburgh would benefit greatly by bringing him back into the fold.
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Former Steelers wide receiver Miles Boykin following a game in Cleveland, OH.
Boykin recorded 15 tackles on special teams during his time in Pittsburgh, and he also chipped in a little bit on offense. He has nearly 500 receiving yards throughout his career along with seven touchdowns. His veteran presence could be used in the wide receiver room, even though he probably won't be relied upon to contribute heavily. Boykin would likely be the best replacement for Skowronek, and the front office should act fast to get him to Pittsburgh.
Would you like to see a reunion like this? Let us know in the comments below!
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