Friday, December 8
Being accountable: Shortly before Steelers players headed to the meeting rooms to watch film of Thursday night's loss to the New England Patriots, cornerback Patrick Peterson talked about something everyone on the team needs to make sure they have.
Accountability.
It was something Cameron Heyward mentioned right after the game, and a topic Peterson agreed with.
"It just starts with first and foremost with looking at yourself in the mirror, understand and see what you can do more or better to have the team outcome of Ws," said Peterson. "That's the great thing you have to love about this team sport and football is that it's a team effort. You also get week after week, only got four weeks left, but to prove yourself and kind of right your wrongs in a sense.
"The road is very narrow at this point of the season. We have to find a way to get it in gear very quickly because if we want to be where 14 other teams possibly can be, we have to get on the same page."
And where that is, no doubt, is the postseason. But that is a topic for later in Peterson's mind, not now.
Right now, the key is winning the next game, which is Saturday, Dec. 16 against the Indianapolis Colts.
"We just have to control what we can control and that's winning ball games," said Peterson. "Having a young team, you have guys always asking you about playoff implications and things like that.
"Let's win our games.
"At the end of Week 18. We'll see what we have to play after that. Just want to get guys in the mindset of focus on what we can control and make sure that we master the process as we go through the process week in and week out to get those Ws and earn the right to get that playoff berth."
Peterson has faith that, despite two disappointing losses, this team can turn things around and right the wrongs and not let opportunities slip away from them.
"I really truly believe that we have the right guys in this locker room, leadership and the right groups to make sure that we keep guys level-headed and understanding that everything that we want to accomplish is still right there in front of us," said Peterson. "We're way too good of a team to be losing games like that. I try to allude to young guys all the time…the window is only open so wide. You have to take advantage of the opportunities at hand. So hopefully, guys gravitate to that message and see where it takes us from here."
A key factor is just like they preach don't get too high with the highs, you also can't get too low with the lows.
"Anything can happen at any given moment," said Peterson. "You want to make sure that you're always sharp mentally to where if any opportunity presents itself, you're ready to roll."
With just four games left, and the team still in the playoff hunt, there is no time like the present to get rolling.
"Just have to go out there and do our part and do it to the best of our potential for 60 minutes," said Peterson. "It's do or die right now for the last month of the season."
Tuesday, December 5
Communication is the key: It's a topic that has been discussed every week, and not because it's an issue the Steelers are ignoring.
Quite the opposite, actually.
Communication is a key factor for the defense, especially for a home game when the crowd is trying to make it tough on opposing offenses by raising the decibel bar as high as possible. They work on it in practice on a regular basis, pumping crowd noise in to simulate situations.
But when a player who is a hub of communication for the defense is injured in game, as was the case with linebacker Elandon Roberts, it's hard to replace that in-game.
"We say next man up mentality and we mean it," said linebacker T.J. Watt. "At the same time, it's hard to replace a veteran that has that cool, calm demeanor to command a huddle defensively. That was part of last week and hopefully he's able to go this week. I'm not sure what the status is.
"It's hard because you can't simulate reps. There's only so many reps to go around this time of year. Guys that are put into games that aren't necessarily starters, they don't get as many reps as a starter, so that's where the communication amongst the group can be tough.
"Communication, I sat here and talked about it a week ago, is a key. The home games present communication problems for defense, especially defenses that have new players in positions they haven't been before. And that's what the situation was last week, when you have players that haven't started the season where they are now. Communication is amplified, especially in a home environment when the crowd is loud. That's first and foremost the priority this week."
That next man up is going to fall on multiple people this week at inside linebacker, Mykal Walker, Mark Robinson, newcomer Blake Martinez and possibly Myles Jack off the practice squad if Roberts can't go, players who all have NFL experience. The addition of Martinez and Jack over the last few weeks after injuries at inside linebacker to Kwon Alexander and Cole Holcomb could pay off now.
"It's huge," said Watt of having guys available with game experience in the league. "That's why we brought those guys in, because they're experienced. They've done it at multiple different teams. So, they're hopping on the moving train like Mike T (Coach Mike Tomlin) says, and hopefully they can provide some playmakers for us."
Sending the same message: The Steelers inside linebacker position seems to be snake-bitten this year, already losing Kwon Alexander and Cole Holcomb for the season, and now Elandon Roberts is the latest added to the list, suffering a groin injury against the Cardinals on Sunday.
When Roberts left the game, Coach Mike Tomlin said the defense was 'limited from a communication standpoint' as Roberts is the quarterback of the defense.
While his status has yet to be determined this week, there is one thing that has to happen whether he is in there or not.
Communication must be on point.
"It's critical," said defensive tackle Cameron Heyward. "Guys have to step in. We have some good guys behind that can help out, but it's not easy.
"I think communication is so important. It has to be so detailed on the defensive side of the ball. We'll see what happens in such a little bit of time. We have our work cut out for us."
The combination of Mykal Walker and Mark Robinson will get help from Blake Martinez and potentially Myles Jack, two experienced players who were both retired before the beginning of the 2023 season. Martinez was signed to the 53-man roster on Nov. 22 off the Carolina Panthers practice squad. Jack, who played for the Steelers in 2022, came out of retirement to sign to the Steelers practice squad on Nov. 20, and it's unknown if he will be activated for the game.
"I think it helps," said Heyward of having two guys potentially available with NFL experience. "Myles was here last year so he understands the playbook. Blake is a smart guy as well. Having those guys that have had that experience definitely plays a part.
"We just have to grow in these next two days. The meetings have to be locked in, the walk throughs, practice. We have to take advantage of this time and get all of the questions and answers out there."
Next man up: It will be Mitch Trubisky at quarterback for the Steelers on Thursday night against the New England Patriots and that means one thing.
The Steelers don't have to change their offense.
Trubisky knows the offense inside and out and will be more than ready to go this week and has everyone behind him.
"Mitch has been in that position before. He knows the system," said receiver Diontae Johnson. "It's not like we just brought someone in to fill the spot. The offense has full confidence in Mitch that he is going to get the job done this Thursday. Us guys on the outside, feel the same way."
Trubisky signed with the Steelers in the 2022 offseason, prior to the team drafting Kenny Pickett in the first round, and began the 2022 season as the starter before Pickett took over. He also stepped in when Pickett was out injured last season.
"(I have) the same amount of respect I have for Kenny and Mason (Rudolph) as well," said Johnson. "From an experience standpoint, Mitch has been in the league for some time now. He had experience out there last year as well. Whenever he comes in, he is always prepared and knows what he is doing. He knows the game plan.
"It's pretty much the same. It's next man up. That's how we see it."
Short memory: Short weeks are always a challenge and this one is no exception heading into Thursday night's hosting of New England.
But running back Najee Harris is confident the Steelers have such things figured out by now.
"You do want to correct the things that went wrong last game, but you can't harp on that too much because we do have a short week," Harris cautioned. "Just us being a team, being grown-ups and knowing we did make a lot of mistakes last game, but we have to move on and worry about the Patriots.
"We're still in the hunt, everything's still open for us. So, putting that game to rest, that's kinda what we did and now we're on to the Patriots."
The Steelers are coming off a 24-10 loss to Arizona last Sunday at Acrisure Stadium.
They've followed up each loss this season with a victory in their next game, over Cleveland after losing to San Francisco, over Baltimore after losing at Houston, over Tennessee after losing to Jacksonville and at Cincinnati after losing at Cleveland.
Harris thinks the Steelers have a handle on that, as well.
"That's part of the NFL," he said. "You win some, you lose some, all you're worried about is just the next game. You need to have that next play, next opportunity mentality and that's kinda what we have here. We just have a next play, next game, next opportunity.
"You can't harp on things too much, especially this deep in the season, this late in the season. Where we're at right now, the standings, you can't harp on things too much. All we're worried about now is the Patriots and getting this win."
The Patriots will bring the NFL's No. 7 defense against the run with them to Pittsburgh, but it won't be the first stout run defense Harris and the Steelers have seen.
"Every defense," he said. "Especially being in this conference there are good run defenses, the Browns, the Ravens, even the Bengals.
"We're used to it by now."
-- Blog entry by Mike Prisuta
Men in Black: The Steelers will wear their Color Rush uniforms this week when they play the New England Patriots at Acrisure Stadium on Thursday Night Football, the first time they have worn the uniforms during the 2023 season.
The Steelers own a 7-2 record when wearing the Color Rush uniforms.
The Color Rush uniform has become a favorite with players and fans alike, a monochromatic look that was first introduced to wear primarily on Thursday Night Football.
"I love the uniform," said tight end Pat Freiermuth. "It's obviously different than our normal one. It's fun to rep. It's fun to wear. It's awesome wearing it running out of the tunnel, especially for a night game. It's so cool to wear it in that home atmosphere.
"I think the whole city likes to rep it as well."
The uniform is a black jersey with gold numbers and gold stripes on the sleeves, while the pants are all black, with a gold stripe.
"I like the Color Rush. I like that it's simple, but still looks old school at the same time," said safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. "I like the all black look. I usually wear all black no matter what.
"Wearing it at night, it adds to the atmosphere for sure."
The Steelers first wore the uniforms on Christmas Day in 2016 when they defeated the Baltimore Ravens, 31-27, to win the AFC North. The team also wore them in 2017 against the Tennessee Titans, a 40-17 win.
In 2018 the team wore them twice, the first time on Thursday Night Football when they defeated the Carolina Panthers, 52-21. They wore them a second time against the New England Patriots, a 17-10 win.
The team also wore them twice in 2019, including in a win over the Miami Dolphins, 27-14, on Monday Night Football. In 2020 the Steelers defeated the Ravens, 19-14, in a Color Rush game. They defeated the Chicago Bears wearing them in 2021.
"I love it," said receiver Diontae Johnson. "The all black. Just that little bit of gold going down the pants, and the stripe.
"It's just something about it. How it looks when you are out there on the field, especially at nighttime. I feel like the uniform pops more at night. It gives us something to look forward to. We are always in the same jersey.
"I really look forward to it. The lights are on. The uniforms look good. You have to have the cleats that match them. When you have it all, it makes you feel good."
Fans are encouraged to do their part as well by wearing black to the game for Thursday Night Football.
There will be one area, though, where gold will be prominent as the Steelers are going retro and painting the end zones gold for the game.
Pro Bowl voting is underway: Steelers fans, it's time to vote. And make sure you do it early, and often.
For your favorite Steelers players that is.
Voting is now open for the 2024 Pro Bowl Games, the second year for the new-look games.
The traditional Pro Bowl game has been replaced by days of activities, which will culminate with an AFC vs. NFC Flag Game at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida on Sunday, February 4.
Leading into the game there will be fun-filled and unique skill competitions, giving fans a different look at all of the league's top players.
Fans can vote for their favorite Steelers players now through Dec. 25. A social aspect of voting will be available beginning on Dec. 11, so keep an eye out for that.
Cast your votes today.
Click on the links to go to the Steelers page and vote for players below as well.
Bringing you the action: For fans who don't want to miss any of the action, NFL+ is here, which means you can now watch the Steelers live and on the go! Watch live local and primetime regular season games on mobile, plus NFL RedZone, NFL Network, live audio and more - all in one place. Start your free trial today here.
Monday, December 4
Confidence in Mitch: The Steelers will be without quarterback Kenny Pickett on Thursday night against the New England Patriots after he has been ruled out with a high ankle sprain that required surgery on Monday, but they won't be without confidence in who will be starting in his spot.
Mitch Trubisky will start in Pickett's absence, and tight end Pat Freiermuth isn't concerned about the change.
"It's going to be the same offense," said Freiermuth. "Mitch takes reps in practice. We have full confidence in Mitch to execute the game plan and we are full steam ahead.
"Mitch is a good leader in game. He brings everyone together. He really communicates on what he wants the receivers to do and stuff. He is a good leader.
"We have full confidence in all of our quarterbacks to execute the offense and get us some wins."
Trubisky, who signed with the Steelers as an unrestricted free agent during the 2022 offseason, was the team's starter at the beginning of last season before Pickett took over the job.
Freiermuth said the offense feels good with Trubisky at the helm.
"He has always been confident in his ability," said Freiermuth. "We're expecting him to come in and lead us and execute what we're asking him to for the offense to execute."
Freiermuth said he had the chance to talk with Pickett, and knows the young quarterback will work his tail off to get back on the field.
"He is obviously frustrated with the injury," said Freiermuth. "We're expecting him to rehab hard and come back whenever he is available."
He isn't the only one feeling frustrated. Freiermuth echoes the sentiment when it comes to getting the ball in the end zone, something the Steelers have struggled doing on offense and something the Patriots have limited their opponents on the last three games in particular.
"It's very frustrating," said Freiermuth. "It's Week 14. We have to figure it out. There is no other option. We try and do everything we can, it's just about putting the ball in the end zone.
"Keep showing up to work and try to find little things that will allow us to get in the end zone."
Added on: The Steelers signed quarterback Trace McSorley to the practice squad today and released receiver Jacob Copeland.
McSorley, who played at Penn State, was selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the sixth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He spent time on the Ravens roster and practice squad in 2019 and 2020 and part of 2021, appearing in just three games with Baltimore.
McSorley was signed off the Ravens practice squad by the Arizona Cardinals during the 2021 season but didn't see any game action.
In 2022 he appeared in six games, making his first NFL start in Week 16 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, throwing for 217 yards and no touchdowns.
He has also spent time with the New England Patriots and Chicago Bears.
McSorley has played in nine games, completing 48 of 93 passes for 502 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions.
Pro Bowl voting is underway: Steelers fans, it's time to vote. And make sure you do it early, and often.
For your favorite Steelers players that is.
Voting is now open for the 2024 Pro Bowl Games, the second year for the new-look games.
The traditional Pro Bowl game has been replaced by days of activities, which will culminate with an AFC vs. NFC Flag Game at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida on Sunday, February 4.
Leading into the game there will be fun-filled and unique skill competitions, giving fans a different look at all of the league's top players.
Fans can vote for their favorite Steelers players now through Dec. 25. A social aspect of voting will be available beginning on Dec. 11, so keep an eye out for that.
Cast your votes today.
Click on the links to go to the Steelers page and vote for players below as well.
Position in transition: Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin listed inside linebacker Elandon Roberts (groin) as questionable for Thursday night's game against New England, which means the Steelers could be transitioning again at the position after having already lost Cole Holcomb and Kwon Alexander for the season.
All three saw time as the lone inside linebacker in the six-defensive backs "Dime" defense this season.
Outside linebacker Alex Highsmith expressed confidence today in whoever ends up playing there against the Patriots being well prepared.
"Coach Tomlin always says, 'Give a capable man information and he runs with it,'" Highsmith noted. "Whoever's in there we're gonna provide them with everything that they need and those guys are going to prepare well and come out and play.
"That's going to be important, knowing we're going to have capable guys to step up and be able to make plays."
Roberts started but didn't finish Sunday's loss to Arizona. Mykal Walker took over for Roberts late in the second quarter against the Cardinals. Two other potential replacements in the event Roberts can't go on Thursday are Myles Jack and Blake Martinez. Jack has 103 career regular-season games on his NFL resume, including 15 with the Steelers last season. Martinez has 84 NFL regular-season games under his belt.
"Myles being here last year, he knows the system," Highsmith said. "Having him here is huge, and also Blake, as well. He's a veteran guy who has played a long time in this league.
"Having veteran voices like that in the locker room's gonna be huge for us."
Highsmith has already begun preparing for the Patriots but acknowledged he's still dealing with the frustration of Sunday's to the Cardinals.
"It's definitely frustrating losing the way we did on our home turf," he said. "But it's a short week so we gotta flush that and get going on the Patriots. I've already started watching film and getting ready for those guys.
"We just gotta bounce back this week and make a statement on Thursday."
Second-year pro Bailey Zappe started at quarterback for the Patriots in Sunday's 6-0 loss to the Chargers. Former No. 1 pick Mac Jones (15th overall in 2021) has started 11 games at quarterback this season and 42 in three seasons in New England.
"We just gotta watch film and prepare for both, not knowing who it's gonna be," Highsmith said. "I think they're gonna come in here and really want to run the ball and establish that. They came in, they ran it last year so we gotta do a good job of stopping the run. We can't let them get going in that way.
"So I think it's gonna to be important to stop the run and get after them in the pass after that."
Steelers-Colts game details announced: The NFL has released the date and time of the Steelers Week 15 game against the Indianapolis Colts.
The game will be played on Saturday, Dec. 16 at 4:30 p.m. at Lucas Oil Stadium. The game will air on the NFL Network and KDKA-TV in the Pittsburgh market.
The game was one of a handful of Week 15 games the league did not set a date and time for when the schedule was released.
Bringing you the action: For fans who don't want to miss any of the action, NFL+ is here, which means you can now watch the Steelers live and on the go! Watch live local and primetime regular season games on mobile, plus NFL RedZone, NFL Network, live audio and more - all in one place. Start your free trial today here.
