PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers were without three key players at Wednesday’s practice, which could set up some troubling availability for top players against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Star wide receiver George Pickens, who head coach Mike Tomlin declared as doubtful on Tuesday, did not practice. Pittsburgh was also without Mike Williams, who just had veteran’s day off. Pickens has a grade two hamstring and will likely miss this week and could miss more.

Meanwhile, safety DeShon Elliott has hamstring tightness and did not practice. Tomlin was more optimistic that he would play, but there is no guarantee that Elliott will end up being out there on Sunday. The Steelers will take it slow with Elliott before deciding if he will play.

Defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi is dealing with a groin injury that he suffered against the Browns. He did not return to the game and did not practice on Wednesday. Montravius Adams, who was on injured reserve and had been practicing for the last two weeks, was a full participant again and seemed to be on track to return.

Pittsburgh Steelers defensive line could get another boost for Eagles game

ATLANTA, GEORGIA – SEPTEMBER 8: Montravius Adams #57 of the Pittsburgh Steelers stands on the sideline during a game against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 8, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia.

This could be the week the Pittsburgh Steelers get defensive tackle Montravius Adams back on the field. Despite practicing the last two weeks, Adams has not yet been activated from injured reserve as he battles back from a torn meniscus. Adams has practiced fully for four straight days, and with Larry Ogunjobi ailing due to a groin injury, Adams’ return seems more imminent than ever before.

The Steelers need Adams back at some point, especially against a stout Philadelphia Eagles rushing attack that will test the Steelers. In what is expected to be a physical, the Steelers will take on running back Saquon Barkley, who is on pace to break the single-season record for most rushing yards in a season. That has put Barkley has one of the front runners for Most Valuable Player.

Adams would allow Keeanu Benton to move around the formation more, and if Ogunjobi can not play, that would be significant for the Steelers. Isaiahh Loudermilk and Dean Lowry will also play a significant amount even if Adams is back, but the team hopes this is the week that Adams is back in the fold.