Major concern for the Steelers: Jackson’s injury could impact their chances in the Bengals game and beyond

Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Donte Jackson popped up with an aggravation of his back injury. Jackson aggravated the injury during Wednesday’s practice, sources tell PennLive. It is not expected to keep him out of Saturday’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals, but the Steelers will continue to treat it cautiously.

Jackson suffered the injury nearly a month ago and missed the team’s game against the Baltimore Ravens with the injury. It is a pinched nerve in his lower back, and rest is the only way that Jackson can treat the injury. It will likely take the offseason for the injury to be fixed with rest and rehabilitation, but in the meantime, he is going to try to play through it.

The Steelers haven’t had both of their top two outside cornerbacks for a full game since Dec. 8 against the Cleveland Browns. James Pierre and Cory Trice have filled in when needed for Porter and Jackson.

Aside from Jackson, all other players on the active roster were full practice participants Wednesday, including running back Jaylen Warren (ribs), depth receiver Ben Skowronek (hip) and backup quarterback Justin Fields (abdominal). Skowronek did not play against Kansas City, and Fields was relegated to an “emergency” No. 3 QB role for a second straight game.

Three players who remain on injury-related lists and returned to practice Tuesday remained status quo Wednesday: receiver Roman Wilson (hamstring) was a full participant, but inside linebacker Cole Holcomb (knee) and rookie defensive lineman Logan Lee (calf) were limited.

If Jackson cannot play on Saturday, it is expected that Cory Trice will start in his place. Until then, the Steelers do expect Joey Porter Jr. to return from a knee injury suffered against the Ravens.

The Steelers are getting healthy, but Jackson’s injury looms as one that could be an issue for the Steelers leading up to this game against the Bengals and the playoffs.