Full Breakdown
Steelers and Bengals Prepare for Week 7 Showdown Amid Injury Concerns
10/16/2025, 3:57:15 PM
Injury Report Overview
As the Pittsburgh Steelers gear up for their Thursday night matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, both teams face significant injury challenges. The Steelers have ruled out wide receiver Calvin Austin III (shoulder) and safety Miles Killebrew (knee) for the game. Safety DeShon Elliott has been downgraded to questionable due to personal reasons and did not travel with the team to Cincinnati. Linebacker Malik Harrison is also listed as questionable after being limited in practice as he works to return from injured reserve.
Key Player Status
Calvin Austin III will miss his second consecutive game after suffering a shoulder injury in Week 4 against the Minnesota Vikings. Killebrew's knee injury, described as "significant" by head coach Mike Tomlin, will also keep him sidelined. Elliott's absence, if confirmed, would leave the Steelers with a thinner safety lineup, relying on Chuck Clark and Jabrill Peppers to fill the void. Elliott has been a key player for the Steelers, contributing significantly since returning from a knee injury earlier in the season.
On the Bengals' side, defensive end Trey Hendrickson is listed as questionable with a hip injury. Hendrickson, who leads the Bengals in sacks, missed all three practices this week but has not been ruled out for the game. The Bengals have also ruled out tight end Mike Gesicki (pectoral) and Tanner Hudson (concussion), further depleting their offensive options.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach Mike Tomlin indicated that the Steelers are prepared for the short week, stating, "We are a healthy group, something that will help mitigate the short week." However, the potential absence of Elliott raises concerns about the team's defensive capabilities against the Bengals' potent offense, which features star receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.
Bengals head coach Zac Taylor expressed optimism regarding Hendrickson's status, saying, "We'll see," while emphasizing the importance of every player as they seek to turn around their 2-4 season.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have pointed out that the Steelers' reliance on backup players in the secondary could be a significant disadvantage, especially against a Bengals team that has struggled but still possesses explosive offensive talent. The Bengals, having lost four straight games, are under pressure to secure a win to stay competitive in the AFC North.
What's Next
The Steelers and Bengals are set to kick off at 8:15 PM EST on Thursday night. Both teams will be looking to overcome their injury challenges and secure a crucial victory in this AFC North rivalry.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Otherwise, Pittsburgh is a healthy group, something that will help mitigate the short week.” — Mike Tomlin, Head Coach, Pittsburgh Steelers
- “We'll see,” — Zac Taylor, Head Coach, Cincinnati Bengals
This matchup not only carries playoff implications but also highlights the resilience of both teams as they navigate the challenges of the NFL season.
