The Pittsburgh Steelers received bad news Friday when offensive tackle, and first round draft pick, Troy Fautanu left practice with a knee injury. Throughout the day there was speculation as to the severity of the injury. Fautanu was listed as questionable on the final injury report Friday, but was downgraded to out Saturday.

Shortly after that announcement, many were wondering if Fautanu would be placed on Injured Reserve (IR). Saturday afternoon that move was made, putting Fautanu on the shelf for at least four games. This per the Steelers official Twitter/X account:

We have placed OL Troy Fautanu on the Reserve/Injured list. @BordasLaw https://t.co/u0Pm4ZbhOL

— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) September 21, 2024

It is important to note Fautanu being placed on IR means he will miss four games, and not necessarily four weeks. With that being the case, the game vs. the Los Angeles Chargers Sunday in Week 3 would count as the first game of four before he could be considered able to return. Considering the rule, the first available chance for Fautanu to return would be the October 20th game vs. the New York Jets at home on prime time.

That doesn’t mean Fautanu would be healthy enough to play at that time, just when he is eligible to return. The fact he was placed on IR shows the significance of the injury to his knee.

In Fautanu’s absence the Steelers will turn to another first round pick, Broderick Jones, to fill the void. Jones and Dan Moore Jr. will attempt to anchor the two ends of the offensive line, like they did in 2023. Jones is coming off one of his worst games in his young career vs. the Denver Broncos, but the hope is he will show his pedigree and play well vs. the 2-0 Chargers and beyond.

Be sure to stay tuned to SCN for the latest news and notes surrounding the Steelers as they prepare for the Chargers in Week 3 at Acrisure Stadium.