Steelers receive much-needed good news on Friday
The Pittsburgh Steelers couldn't have asked for better news on Friday before their weekend game versus the reigning AFC Champions. When they take the field versus the Cincinnati Bengals, they'll do so at full strength. Both WR Diontae Johnson and RT Chukwuma Okorafor will be ready to go, according to the players themselves. Johnson's reps will […]
The Pittsburgh Steelers couldn't have asked for better news on Friday before their weekend game versus the reigning AFC Champions. When they take the field versus the Cincinnati Bengals, they'll do so at full strength.
Both WR Diontae Johnson and RT Chukwuma Okorafor will be ready to go, according to the players themselves.
Johnson's reps will be something to monitor, as he disclosed he's willing to play through the pain. How – and how much – the Steelers decide to use him after spending most of the week as a limited participant with a shoulder injury (and cramps on Thursday) will be one of this week's most intriguing decisions.
Johnson is set to play his first game on Sunday after receiving a lucrative extension this offseason. The expectations have never been higher for the wide receiver who has averaged over 1,000 yards over the last two seasons on an offense that isn't known for its creativity.
As excited as Steelers Nation should be about Johnson's status though, it might pale in comparison to the availability of right tackle Chukwuma Okorafor.
Despite being the significantly smaller name, Chuks is the best player on the Steelers offensive line and not having him suit up would spell trouble for Mitch Trubisky. Not having him would mean Trent Scott or the recently-acquired Jesse Davis would've had to start at right tackle otherwise, which is a scary proposition.
Even at full strength, pulling off an upset versus the Bengals will be difficult. But with Mike Tomlin leading the charge, Steelers fans know better than to rule their team out.
Featured image via Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
