Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. aggravated a foot injury in Wednesday's practice and will likely be sidelined multiple weeks, coach Mike McCarthy said Thursday. Pittman had been dealing with plantar fasciitis in his left foot, which led him to miss the Week 2 game against the New England Patriots. The 29-year-old, acquired in a March trade from the Indianapolis Colts and signed to a three-year, $59 million extension, has caught just seven passes on 12 targets for 89 yards this season.
Pittman's absence opens the door for Roman Wilson and Germie Bernard. Wilson, a 2024 third-round pick, has emerged as a go-to target for quarterback Aaron Rodgers, recording touchdown receptions in Weeks 3 and 4. Bernard, a second-round pick out of Alabama, has contributed seven receptions for 60 yards. McCarthy praised Wilson's improved route-running and Bernard's preparation since joining the team.
The injury compounds offensive struggles as the Steelers prepare to face Pittman's former team Sunday. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers noted the matchup but emphasized opportunities for other players. Meanwhile, the defense could receive a boost with De Shon Elliott nearing a return from injured reserve after sustaining a season-ending knee injury in 2025. Cornerback Jamel Dean also showed encouraging signs recovering from an ankle injury, though he did not practice Wednesday.
Without Pittman, the Steelers will lean heavily on their developing receiving corps as they look to stabilize an offense off to a slow start.
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing