Full Breakdown
Steelers Face Injury Test Ahead of Paris Showdown
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Core Event: T.J. Watt Added to Injury Report with Calf Issue
The Pittsburgh Steelers entered Week 7 with a growing list of injuries as they prepared to travel to Paris, France, for a Sunday game against the New Orleans Saints. Outside linebacker T.J. Watt was listed on Thursday’s injury report with a calf problem that limited his participation in practice. Watt did not practice on Wednesday and was limited on Thursday. No game-day designation has been announced, leaving his availability for the Paris matchup uncertain.
Background & Context: Travel Logistics and Recent Absences
The Steelers scheduled a redeye flight to Paris on Thursday, arriving Friday morning for a final practice at the Stade de France. Coach Mike McCarthy emphasized basic recovery factors—hydration, sleep, and nutrition—to mitigate the strain of an eight-hour flight and a six-hour time difference. The team also adjusted its weekly practice schedule, starting later on Wednesday and holding an abbreviated session before a full practice on Thursday.
In addition to Watt, the Steelers have already ruled out cornerback Brandin Echols (hamstring) and wide receiver Ben Skowronek (calf). Defensive end Sebastian Joseph-Day was placed on the Reserve/Inactive list with a triceps injury, joining defensive lineman Derrick Harmon. Other players listed as limited on Thursday include cornerback Jalen Ramsey (wrist), running back Rico Dowdle (knee), and outside linebacker Alex Highsmith (groin).
Data & Statistics: Defensive Production and Injury List
- T.J. Watt – 4.5 sacks (tied for eighth), 15 tackles, 1 interception, 1 forced fumble, 1 recovery in six games.
- Alex Highsmith – 5 solo tackles, 3 sacks, 1 pass defended (groin).
- Nick Herbig – poised for increased snaps if Watt is unavailable; strong Week 6 performance.
- Sebastian Joseph-Day – 10 tackles and a fumble recovery before moving to IR.
These injuries leave the Steelers without two starters (Echols, Skowronek) and with multiple key defenders limited, testing depth at cornerback, receiver, and edge-rush positions.
Official Statements & Responses: Coaching Staff Emphasize Preparation
Coach McCarthy explained that departing Thursday and arriving Friday gives players “extra time” for rest and acclimation, noting that maintaining “the basics” of hydration and sleep provides the best opportunity for performance overseas.
Offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio praised the NFL’s logistical support for European games, describing the hotels, scheduling, and hospitality as “great” and noting that leaving on Thursday “never has been an issue.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “The NFL does a great job with the trips in Europe and the scheduling, the hotels and the hospitality of the people,” — Brian Angelichio
- “Having the extra time was needed,” — Mike McCarthy
What’s Next: Final Designations and Game Outlook
The Steelers will hold a final practice on Friday in Paris, after which they will issue the last injury designations before the Sunday game. If Watt remains limited, Nick Herbig is expected to assume a starting edge-rush role, with practice-squad players such as Jack Sawyer also seeing increased snaps. The outcome of Friday’s practice will determine whether the Steelers can field a full defensive rotation against the Saints, a factor that could influence the team’s pursuit of a 5-2 record heading into the second half of the season.