Steelers lose star player for multiple weeks

The Pittsburgh Steelers have suffered a significant blow to their offense, as wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. will miss multiple weeks of the NFL season after aggravating his foot injury. Head coach Mike McCarthy confirmed Thursday that Pittman is dealing with the same foot issue that has bothered him throughout the season, creating another challenge for the offense led by Aaron Rodgers.

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Good news: #Steelers S DeShon Elliott has returned to practice, though he remains on IR. Bad news: #Steelers WR Michael Pittman Jr aggravated his foot injury and coach Mike McCarthy said he’ll miss multiple weeks. Pittman had been dealing with plantar fasciitis.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 8, 2026

Pittman had already missed Pittsburgh’s Week 2 matchup because of the foot injury before returning for the following two games. He has recorded seven receptions for 89 yards this season, but the lingering issue has clearly limited his production.

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Pittman injury creates another challenge for Steelers

Sep 13, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. (11) runs after a catch during the first quarter against the Atlanta Falcons at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Pittman’s latest setback is particularly frustrating for Pittsburgh because the team acquired him from Indianapolis during the offseason with the expectation that he would become an important part of the passing attack alongside DK Metcalf.

The Steelers will now have to navigate multiple weeks without one of their veteran receivers. McCarthy said the team is still evaluating Pittman’s roster situation, meaning a potential injured reserve stint remains possible.

Pittman was reportedly dealing with plantar fasciitis, which had already caused him to miss time earlier in the season. The aggravation means Pittsburgh will need other receivers to take on larger roles while he works his way back.

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More pressure on DK Metcalf

Sep 27, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. (11) celebrates after a catch during the first quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

The biggest opportunity could belong to DK Metcalf. Pittsburgh signed Metcalf to be a major piece of the offense, and Pittman’s absence should create additional targets for the star receiver.

Metcalf already showed what he can do in Week 4, when he stepped up as a major part of the passing attack. With Pittman unavailable for multiple weeks, Pittsburgh will need another strong stretch from Metcalf if Rodgers and the Steelers offense are going to keep moving forward.

The Steelers also have other options available, including Roman Wilson and rookie Germie Bernard, but replacing Pittman’s experience will not be easy. Bernard previously stepped into a larger role when Pittman missed Week 2 and caught four passes for 35 yards.

For now, the Steelers will have to move forward without Pittman and hope Metcalf can continue producing at a high level.

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