The age old saying is “when it rains, it pours”, and that is exactly what seems to be happening to the Pittsburgh Steelers as they come off a third straight loss, the latest to the Indianapolis Colts in Week 15. Coming off the 30-13 loss on the road, the Steelers are forced to try and pick themselves up by the boot straps and finish the season strong. The problem with that being the team certainly is going to be short-handed with the team riddled with injuries.

Monday Mike Tomlin met with media to preview the regular season home finale, and the final home game of the 2023 season most likely, vs. the Cincinnati Bengals. In that preview he spoke about making a change at the quarterback position. While Kenny Pickett wasn’t ruled out of playing vs. the Bengals in Week 16, Tomlin stated if Pickett can’t go, the team will turn to Mason Rudolph, not Mitch Trubisky.

Here are Tomlin’s thoughts on the change:

Coach Tomlin on the quarterback position: pic.twitter.com/OXiQR5Ej0y

— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) December 18, 2023

Speaking of Pickett, Tomlin went on to say he would have to not only be medically cleared by the medical professionals, but he would also be both sharp and able to make plays in the pocket. On top of that, Pickett would have to be able to protect himself with his surgically repaired ankle.

Outside of the quarterback change, Tomlin highlighted several injured players who might be working through some issues as the team looks to find a way to improve their division record.

Minkah Fitzpatrick’s knee injury was deemed to be serious, and he has already been ruled out of the game Saturday. On top of Fitzpatrick’s knee, the team will also likely be without Cam Heyward who is now in the NFL’s concussion protocol. Trenton Thompson, who had a stinger in the game vs. the Colts but was able to return, is deemed questionable for the Bengals game, and reserve safety Elijah Riley, who has been on Injured Reserve (IR) could return to action this week.

A player many thought would return and help with the issues at both safety and inside linebacker, Keanu Neal, will not be available this week. Tomlin was asked if he suffered a season-ending injury, and he refused to elaborate on Neal’s condition. For those hoping to see Eric Rowe and Myles Jack, two veterans on the practice squad, be activated, Tomlin said that is a possibility this week.

Be sure to stay tuned to SCN for the latest news and notes surrounding the Steelers as they prepare for the rest of the 2023 regular season with the Bengals coming to town Saturday afternoon.