The Pittsburgh Steelers weren’t just losers in Week 1, losing to the San Francisco 49ers 30-7 at home, but there was more than just the 0-1 record which is bad news for Pittsburgh. On top of the putrid performance, the Steelers are dealing with a myriad of injuries following the season opener.

Following the loss, Mike Tomlin addressed the media and went down the list of players who were injured during the game. The list was long…

• Cam Heyward left the game with a groin injury, and while he tried to return to the game, it lasted just one play before he was taken out for the rest of the game.
• Pat Freiermuth had a chest injury after taking a hit over the middle in the red-zone, but he was able to return to the game and finished the contest.
• DeMarvin Leal left with what was labeled an elbow injury, but Tomlin said it could be labeled as a triceps injury. Leal was able to return to the game.
• Diontae Johnson suffered a hamstring injury after a catch and run, and not only needed to be helped off the field, but was unable to return and ruled out immediately.
• Chuks Okorafor left the game in the final moments of the game, and Tomlin said he is now in the NFL’s concussion protocol.

The issue with some of these injuries is how they can linger for more than just one week. When you consider injuries like hamstrings and groins, those injuries can often times take weeks before they completely heal. Depending on the severity, some of the aforementioned injuries could be issues not just for Week 2, but beyond.

The Steelers now have to prepare for the Cleveland Browns on Monday Night Football, which means they will have at least one extra day to heal up before their next game. They’ll need all the help they can get after their performance at Acrisure Stadium in Week 1.

Be sure to stay tuned to SCN for the latest news and notes surrounding the Steelers as they prepare for a prime time home game next week.