newsweek
Pittsburgh Steelers veteran wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. was seen using a one-legged scooter after Wednesday's Week 5 practice, and on Thursday, head coach Mike McCarthy announced that Pittman will be sidelined for multiple weeks due to a foot injury.
The injury is a re-aggravation of plantar fasciitis that has bothered Pittman throughout the 2026 season. McCarthy stated that the Steelers are "going through the evaluation of Pittman's roster position," suggesting the team may place him on injured reserve, which would rule him out for at least the next four weeks.
Pittman joined the Steelers this past offseason via a trade with the Indianapolis Colts and subsequently signed a three-year, $59 million contract extension before his first season in Pittsburgh. So far in 2026, he has struggled to meet expectations, recording just seven receptions for 89 yards and no touchdowns.
In his 2025 campaign with the Colts, Pittman posted 80 catches for 784 yards and a career-high seven touchdowns. The Steelers currently hold a 2-2 record after falling to the division-rival Cleveland Browns last week on Thursday Night Football. They will aim to rebound in Sunday's Week 5 matchup against Pittman's former team, the Colts.
Key Analysis
Pittman's absence poses a significant challenge for Pittsburgh's offense, which has already been inconsistent. Placing him on injured reserve would free up a roster spot but leave the receiving corps thin. The timing is particularly tough as the Steelers face a crucial divisional stretch. How the team compensates for his loss could shape their season trajectory.
Originally reported by newsweek.