T.J. Watt limited, Joe Haden does not practice in attempts to return to Steelers lineup
Of the three high-profile members of the Pittsburgh Steelers defense who missed this past Sunday’s game, only one returned for the beginning of a new week of practice.
And that one returnee was limited in his participation, at that.
All Pro outside linebacker T.J. Watt was listed on the league-mandated injury report as a limited participant in Wednesday’s practice. Watt missed a loss at the Los Angeles Chargers three days prior because of a hip/knee injury.
Cornerback Joe Haden (foot) and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (covid-19 list) also did not play in a game during which the Steelers allowed 41 points — the most they had in more than three years. Neither Haden nor Fitzpatrick returned to practice at all Wednesday. Fitzpatrick remains on the covid list.
Also absent from Wednesday’s practice were starting right guard Trai Turner (knee), tight end Eric Ebron (knee) and reserve interior offensive lineman J.C. Hassenauer (pec). Turner likely was given a “veteran” day to rest after he returned from the injury to play against the Chargers. Ebron and Hassenauer left the game in Los Angeles because of injury, and Ebron’s injury is expected to be a significant one.
Also Wednesday, rookie reserve defensive lineman Isaiahh Loudermilk (groin) returned to limited practice after missing the Chargers game.
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Chris Adamski is a TribLive reporter who has covered primarily the Pittsburgh Steelers since 2014 following two seasons on the Penn State football beat. A Western Pennsylvania native, he joined the Trib in 2012 after spending a decade covering Pittsburgh sports for other outlets. He can be reached at cadamski@triblive.com.
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