Steelers Roster Health Update
Steelers Activate Ramsey as Key Players Return to Practice Ahead of Week 1
Key Points
Ramsey posted 53 solo tackles, 4 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks, 8 passes defensed and 1 interception last season, and earned his eighth Pro Bowl.
Porter Jr. activation from the PUP list is still pending, and Ramsey is projected to form an elite nickel/slot trio with Jamel Dean and Joey Porter Jr. once Porter Jr. is activated.
Max Iheanachor has returned to practice after missing about 2 1/2 weeks with a shoulder/neck injury and could see action in the upcoming preseason game, with McCarthy noting his fit at right tackle as a potential starter decision looms.
Pittman Jr. has a minor hamstring issue, while Metcalf's injury is undisclosed but not expected to keep him out for Week 1, contributing to a cautiously optimistic injury picture for the receiving corps.
The Pittsburgh Steelers activated eight-time Pro Bowl cornerback Jalen Ramsey from the physically unable to perform list, clearing him to practice ahead of Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons Steelers Wire. Ramsey will take on a versatile role as both a safety and slot cornerback, and the team expects a two-week ramp-up period before he plays in games.
Rookie tackle Max Iheanachor also returned to practice after missing 2.5 weeks with a shoulder and neck injury WTVB. The Steelers emerged from camp relatively healthy, with multiple players working their way back to full strength for the season opener.
Ramsey Joins Elite Slot Cornerback Group
Ramsey will form a cornerstone piece of Pittsburgh's defensive secondary as a nickel and slot specialist KWSN. He spent last season posting 53 solo tackles, four tackles for loss, three sacks, eight passes defensed, and one interception. The Steelers plan to deploy him alongside cornerback Jamel Dean and Joey Porter Jr. once Porter Jr. returns from his own PUP status.
This three-player unit represents one of the league's most talented nickel groups under defensive coordinator Patrick Graham KAT Country. Ramsey's versatility in the secondary gives Graham multiple defensive looks in coverage situations.
Iheanachor Eyes Starting Right Tackle Job
The first-round rookie returned to full practice participation after recovering from shoulder and neck injuries Steelers Wire. Iheanachor is expected to play in the upcoming preseason game and could secure the starting right tackle position as the regular season approaches.
His return bolsters an offensive line that has dealt with injuries throughout training camp WTVB. The Steelers view Iheanachor's health as a positive sign heading into Week 1.
Receivers Working Back From Injuries
Wide receivers Michael Pittman Jr. and DK Metcalf returned to practice as they recover from injuries Y94. Pittman Jr. has a minor hamstring issue, while Metcalf's injury status remains undisclosed. Both are expected to be available for the Week 1 matchup against Atlanta.
The receiving corps' early return to practice reduces concerns about Pittsburgh's passing game strength WTVB. Defensive lineman Sebastian Joseph-Day and cornerback Brandin Echols also continue working toward full participation in practice.
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