The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing off against the New York Jets in their season opener this afternoon. In a season where the team has gone all-in on pursuing a Super Bowl run, getting off to a strong start will be a major key.
So far in the first half, the two teams have gone back and forth. At the time of this writing, the Steelers are trailing the Jets by a score of 19-10.
Unfortunately, Pittsburgh suffered a concerning injury.
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As shared by Mike DeFabo of The Athletic, safety DeShon Elliott has left the game and is doubtful to return due to a knee injury.
Here is what DeFabo had to say about the injury on X.
“DeShon Elliott is doubtful to return with a knee injury. He’s walking into the locker room a little early ahead of halftime,” DeFabo wrote.
Elliott is a key member of the Steelers’ defense. Without him on the field, there could be some concern at the safety position.
Pittsburgh will turn to veteran safety Chuck Clark in Elliott’s absence.
At 28 years old, Elliott is coming off of a big season with the Steelers in 2024. He played in 15 games for Pittsburgh, racking up 108 total tackles to go along with two forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, an interception, and six defended passes.
Hopefully, this injury does not end up being a serious deal. The Steelers are much better with Elliott on the field than without him. An update should be expected either later today or tomorrow.
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In the meantime, the Pittsburgh defense will need to figure out how to slow down Justin Fields. Fields, who spent last season with the Steelers, has looked really good in his debut with New York.
Expect to hear more about Elliott in the near future. For now, it’s a major concern for Pittsburgh’s defense.
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