Steelers Face Injury Challenges Ahead of Game in Dublin

Dublin, Ireland — The Pittsburgh Steelers are set to face the Minnesota Vikings in Week 4 of the NFL season, but they might do so without key players due to injury. Running back Jaylen Warren, tight end Jonnu Smith, and cornerback Joey Porter Jr. are all listed as ‘questionable’ for the upcoming game.

Warren has emerged as a crucial part of the Steelers’ offense in recent weeks, both as a running back and a receiver. If he is unable to play, it could hinder Pittsburgh’s offensive production significantly against the Vikings.

Kenneth Gainwell has stepped up this season and gained the coaching staff’s favor. However, there are doubts about his capability to handle a full workload, especially if Warren is sidelined. The Steelers may have to turn to rookie Kaleb Johnson, who has struggled in his debut season with only negative one yard on two carries.

Head coach Mike Tomlin expressed disappointment in Johnson after the rookie’s performance on special teams led to a critical mistake in a previous game. Despite this, Johnson’s potential may need to be utilized if the Steelers want to avoid producing a weak offense.

If Warren is unable to take the field, Johnson’s opportunities may increase as the season progresses, especially during this high-stakes game in Dublin, which honors the legacy of the Rooney family. A strong performance could not only prove his worth but also provide the Steelers with much-needed momentum.

While Gainwell is expected to see many snaps, the possibility exists that Johnson could score his first NFL touchdown if given the chance. The Steelers will need a balanced attack against the Vikings to secure a vital win.