Logo

DeShon Elliott and Two Key Steelers Starters Ruled Out for Thursday Night Battle Against Bengals

As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare to face the Cincinnati Bengals tonight under the primetime lights of Thursday Night Football, both teams are dealing with significant injury concerns that could impact the outcome of this crucial AFC North showdown.

For the Bengals, tight end Mike Gesicki (pectoral) and defensive end Trey Hendrickson (hip) were limited early in the week but have shown signs of improvement. The team has yet to specify their official game status. Guard Dylan Fairchild, defensive end B.J. Hill, and offensive tackle Amarius Mims all practiced fully and are expected to suit up.

For the Steelers, two key players have officially been ruled out — wide receiver Calvin Austin III (shoulder) and safety Miles Killebrew (knee). Austin’s ongoing shoulder issue continues to sideline him for the second straight week, while Killebrew’s non-contact knee injury suffered against the Browns is expected to keep him out for an extended period.

Article image

Linebacker Malik Harrison (knee) and safety DeShon Elliott (personal/resting vet) are both listed as questionable, with their status likely to be determined closer to kickoff. The team is hopeful Harrison’s limited practice sessions this week indicate progress, though his availability remains uncertain.

On the brighter side, several veterans — including T.J. Watt, Jalen Ramsey, Cameron Heyward, and Aaron Rodgers — returned to full participation after rest days earlier in the week and are expected to play without limitations.

With both teams chasing ground in a tightly contested AFC North, tonight’s matchup could hinge on depth and discipline. For the Steelers, maintaining defensive intensity despite missing two key contributors will be critical as they look to extend their divisional momentum after last week’s dominant win over Cleveland.

Kickoff is set for 8:15 PM ET at Paycor Stadium, as Pittsburgh looks to keep their winning streak alive against a familiar rival under the Thursday night lights.

Tre'von Moehrig Lavishes Praise on the One Who Replaced Him in His Absence
Can you believe it? A veteran star of the Carolina Panthers, Tre'von Moehrig, was suspended for a notorious "punch below the belt," but instead of being jealous, he's showering praise on his "replacement"! What's going on with this team? Read now for the "hot off the press" details from Week 13! The Carolina Panthers just caused an earthquake by defeating the Los Angeles Rams in Week 13, despite missing a slew of key players. Under the "wizardry" of head coach Dave Canales, the team showcased incredible resilience. But the real spotlight belongs to Tre'von Moehrig – the Panthers' top safety, who's sidelined due to a suspension after punching wide receiver Jauan Jennings from the San Francisco 49ers below the belt. Yet, instead of sulking, Moehrig watched from home and... "went wild" over the performance of the rookie who stepped in for him! That's none other than Lathan Ransom, the young gun selected in the 4th round of the draft, who "stole" Moehrig's spot and turned it into his own stage. Ransom not only led the team with 11 tackles but also made his mark with a "top-notch" sack! Moehrig, with his wealth of experience, couldn't hide his excitement: "Man, I was hype (for Lathan Ransom's sack). I could see it all as the play was happening. I was like, Oh, there you go. I could see it all the way. So I was happy for him to get his first sack. He had a great game, and I'm just excited. Sky's the limit for him." (Translation: "Oh man, I was so hyped (for Lathan Ransom's sack). I could see everything as the play unfolded. I was like, Oh, there you go. I saw it all the way. So I was happy for him to get his first sack. He had a great game, and I'm just excited. The sky's the limit for him." This "sweet as honey" praise from Moehrig not only affirms Ransom's talent but also raises the question: Is this "replacement" threatening the starting positions of Moehrig and Nick Scott – the current starting safety duo? Panthers fans have been "whispering" about this for a while, after witnessing Ransom shine in summer practices and his flashy cameo appearances. With this impressive performance, Ransom is sure to get more opportunities, especially as the Panthers are "heating up" in the race for the NFC South championship! At 23 years old, Ransom is seen as a "rough diamond" with explosive potential, thanks to the Panthers' sharp personnel strategy. And Moehrig? This guy was signed as a "bargain" from the free agent market, and his leadership and positive attitude have completely transformed the team's defense in just his first season. That influence is spreading strongly to Ransom – the kid who shares many similarities and is gradually "transforming" into a future star. But that's not all – the lesson from Moehrig is accelerating the "youth revolution" at the Panthers! With this public praise, Moehrig isn't just acknowledging Ransom's growth but also igniting ambition for the entire team. Will the Panthers continue to "soar high" with this new generation? Don't miss out – follow now for the next drama in the NFL!