Final Steelers injury report ahead of Week 2 game vs. Patriots

The Pittsburgh Steelers will face the New England Patriots without two key starters in their Week 2 game. Wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. and cornerback Joey Porter Jr. were both ruled out for the matchup. Pittman was upgraded to questionable during the week due to a foot injury and was later ruled out on Saturday. Porter, who had been practicing on a limited basis, added a back issue to his injury designation on Thursday and will miss his second straight game.

Left tackle Troy Fautanu remains questionable with an ankle injury, with his availability offering some optimism. Tight end Darnell Washington and defensive tackle Cameron Heyward both practiced fully and received no game designations. The absence of Pittman, the leading receiver in the Steelers' season-opening victory, reshapes their passing game, with DK Metcalf becoming the primary target for quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

Metcalf, who had only four receptions for 40 yards in Week 1, may see increased targets from Rodgers. Tight end Darnell Washington and rookie Germie Bernard are expected to see more playing time, while the Steelers could also rely more on their tight end personnel to compensate for Pittman's absence. Porter's continued absence puts pressure on Asante Samuel Jr. to start again, with Jamel Dean and rookie Daylen Everette expected to also play significant roles.

The combination of these two injuries leaves Pittsburgh with significant challenges to overcome, particularly in maintaining offensive efficiency and defending against New England's aggressive offense.