Steelers fan favorite gets one step closer to making his return from early season injury

The Pittsburgh Steelers have to avoid looking ahead this week.  Coming off a big win against the New York Jets, Pittsburgh is wrapping up its hosting of America's biggest city with the New York Giants on Monday Night Football before their bye week.  Health will be a big factor in avoiding what is sure to […]

Rob Gregson — NFL News Writer
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Dec 25, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Tyler Matakevich (44) prior to the game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium.
Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images

The Pittsburgh Steelers have to avoid looking ahead this week. 

Coming off a big win against the New York Jets, Pittsburgh is wrapping up its hosting of America's biggest city with the New York Giants on Monday Night Football before their bye week. 

Health will be a big factor in avoiding what is sure to be a trap game, and Thursday gave us our first look at the team's injury status ahead of MNF. 

Steelers Week 8 Injury Report (Thursday)

Observations

  • Roman Wilson: Wilson seemingly backslid in his hamstring issue, as he wrapped last week in limited participation before being inactive against the Jets. Mike Tomlin even said his decision not to play him was more preparation than injury focused, so the news is somewhat concerning 
  • Damontae Kazee: The third safety in the Steelers' big nickel package, expect him to go against the Giants barring a set back 
  • DeShon Elliott: Pittsburgh's leading tackler and enforcer on defense, the hard-hitting safety has been the team's best off-season acquisition. We'll see how his status looks come Saturday 
  • Donte Jackson: Despite not returning to the game against the Jets, Jackson is expected to play this week 
  • Tyler Matakevich: The fan favorite and LB nicknamed "Dirty Red" had his practice window opened for the first time since being placed on IR after the Week 2 Denver Broncos game 
  • Coradrrelle Patterson: Patterson returned to practice for the first time since injuring his ankle against the Indianapolis Colts, a good sign for his potential playing status 
  • Keeanu Benton: The young DT was limited with a calf injury, but Saturady's final report will likely tell the whole story
  • Dylan Cook: A depth piece at OT, Cook returned in a full capacity for the first time since his practice window was opened last week 
  • Nick Herbig: Herbig has been ruled out for this week 
  • Zach Frazier: Frazier has also been ruled out 

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