Steelers vs. Browns: Player Inactivity Update for Thursday Night Football

As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for their Thursday night matchup against the Cleveland Browns, a notable emphasis has been placed on the health and readiness of the team. The Steelers are heading into the game in a generally healthy state, with linebacker Alex Highsmith being a significant exception. Highsmith is set to miss his second consecutive game due to an ankle injury sustained against the Washington Commanders.

In Highsmith’s absence, linebacker duties have been reassigned primarily to Preston Smith and Nick Herbig. Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin explained that the workload between the two players in the previous game was influenced by the limited number of defensive snaps available. ‘We were getting off the field. We were possessing the ball some on offense,’ Tomlin stated. ‘There weren’t as many defensive snaps to go around.’

Tomlin noted Herbig’s rising prominence on the defense, despite his youth and relative inexperience. ‘He’s a big-time player,’ Tomlin remarked. ‘He trains under the likes of T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith. He’s got some great role models, and he’s got an awesome work ethic and mindset.’

Cleveland Browns Head Coach Kevin Stefanski also remarked on the addition of Smith to the Steelers’ lineup, noting his impact. ‘He’s playing on both sides. Very long player. Strong, good against the run,’ said Stefanski, highlighting Smith’s versatility in both the run and pass defense.

Besides Highsmith, the Steelers are also listing wide receiver Scott Miller, running back Jonathan Ward, and guard Max Scharping as inactive. Quarterback Kyle Allen will be available as the third, emergency option.

The Browns, meanwhile, faced their own roster challenges, with notable players such as offensive tackle Jedrick Wills Jr. and tight end Geoff Swaim ruled out due to injuries. Quarterback Bailey Zappe is set as their emergency quarterback, while running back D’Onta Foreman and cornerback Chigozie Anusiem are also inactive.