The sight of Diontae Johnson on the practice field Wednesday, less than a week after he suffered a concussion on a helmet-to-helmet hit against the Cleveland Browns, was a welcome one for Pittsburgh Steelers teammate James Washington.
“It was good to see that,” Washington said. “He’s an asset to us. Having him out there, I wouldn’t say (he brings) experience, but he’s someone who knows what his role is right now.”
Johnson was one of two starting wide receivers concussed against the Browns, and he had blood coming out of his ear as he was being assisted to the medical tent. JuJu Smith-Schuster, who also is dealing with a knee injury, did not practice Wednesday as the Steelers began preparations for their game Sunday at the Cincinnati Bengals.
Washington expressed optimism that Johnson, at least, will be available Sunday.
“I guess it’s still in the air, but he practiced today,” Washington said. “He looked good, said he felt good. That’s a plus.”
Also returning to practice were outside linebacker Ola Adeniyi (concussion) and running back Benny Snell (knee). Outside linebacker Bud Dupree (arm) and cornerback Artie Burns (knee) were limited.
Sitting out practice in addition to Smith-Schuster were running back James Conner (shoulder) and tight end Nick Vannett (illness). Those sitting because of reasons unrelated to injuries were center Maurkice Pouncey, inside linebacker Mark Barron and tight end Vance McDonald.
Without Johnson, the Steelers finished the game at Cleveland with Washington, Johnny Holton and Tevin Jones as the only healthy options at wide receiver. They since have added Deon Cain from the Indianapolis Colts practice squad.
“I saw an athlete,” Washington said of Cain. “He’s fast, that’s for sure. He came in and learned his plays pretty well. It will be a plus to have him out there.”
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