After a week where only one player, defensive end Aaron Smith, appeared on the injury report, the list is much longer this week as the Steelers prepare to take on the New England Patriots on Sunday night at Heinz Field.
"It's somewhat of a laundry list," said Coach Mike Tomlin. "Working off a short week it's important we prepare smart in regards to working around and with some of these injuries. I am sure many of these guys will be available for the contest but they may have limited preparation.
"The standard is the standard. We have to prepare very smart with these guys and even look at potentially alternative modes of preparation to make sure enough of these men get sufficient looks at what is necessary for us to play."
The following is a breakdown of what Tomlin had to say in regard to individual injuries:
"Will Allen sustained a concussion in the game. He will have the post-concussion test. He might be limited at the early portion of the week. We'll see how those tests go. Those always dictate availability.
"Brett Keisel is still working through his hamstring strain. He was unable to get it going last night. Such is life. We expect this guy to continue to work and see where he is this week.
"Chris Kemoeatu has a knee sprain He'll be limited the first part of the week. We'll see if we can get him enough snaps in preparation to be available.
"Heath Miller has fluid on the knee that may limit him (Wednesday).
"Mewelde Moore has a concussion. Similar situation as Will Allen.
"Maurkice Pouncey is going to be fine with a tibia bruise. He came back in the game and finished.
"Isaac Redman also has a concussion.
"Max Starks experienced some stingers. We'll see where he is." (update on 11/10 Starks placed on IR).
With two running backs on the injury list, if one or both aren't able to play – which hasn't been determined – rookie Jonathan Dwyer could get a look this week.
"If they are down it might mean more opportunities," said Tomlin. "We take these post-concussion symptoms very seriously. But we are not going to worry about those things until it's evident. They will go through the normal procedure of post-concussion tests. If they are available to play, they will play. If not, we will look at our options."
One thing Tomlin won't do is let injuries be an excuse. While it hurt the Steelers suffering so many injuries against the Bengals on Monday night, they are able to react to them during practice preparation and go forward with whoever is healthy.
"I am more concerned about the readiness of the able-bodied guys, the guys who are going to play for us," said Tomlin. "We have a group of men we believe are capable if prepared. They have to prepare as if they are going to get the opportunity. We will see how some of the injuries sort out in the later part of the week.
"The only time injuries are really a major factor are the in-game injuries because you are dealing with 39 versus 46 when you are talking about suited and so forth. During a course of a preparation work week we have the opportunity to get the healthy guys prepared and we are not going to make excuses about the injuries and who is available and who is not. We believe to the core that we will go out and play with 46 guys that are capable to playing winning football and meet our standards."
