The Pittsburgh Steelers faced a setback in their game against the Arizona Cardinals when quarterback Kenny Pickett sustained an ankle injury. This unfortunate incident occurred during the second quarter and forced Pickett to leave the game. The Steelers had to rely on backup quarterback Mitch Trubisky to fill in for Pickett. The impact of Pickett’s absence on the team’s performance cannot be overlooked.
Ankle Injury and Implications
Pickett’s ankle injury occurred when he attempted to make a play near the goal line. Cardinals defensive lineman Jonathan Ledbetter tackled Pickett from behind, causing him to injure his left ankle. It is worth mentioning that Pickett was already dealing with discomfort in his right ankle from a previous game against the Cincinnati Bengals. This latest injury has further aggravated his condition, potentially complicating his recovery process.
Uncertainty and Its Effect
Pickett’s absence from the game brought immediate uncertainty to the Steelers’ offense. Trubisky, not accustomed to being the starting quarterback, had to quickly adapt and lead the team. The lack of cohesion and unfamiliarity between Trubisky and the offense was evident when they failed to convert a fourth-and-goal play from the 1-yard line. This missed opportunity allowed the Cardinals to gain momentum and secure a lead going into halftime.
The ankle injury suffered by Pickett is not an isolated incident. Throughout the season, Pickett has had his fair share of injuries, being forced to leave games early on two other occasions. A bone bruise in Week 4 against the Houston Texans and a ribs injury in Week 8 against the Jacksonville Jaguars led to Pickett’s absence. Trubisky, who filled in during those games, struggled to find consistency, throwing two interceptions and only managing one touchdown.
The Steelers’ depth chart has also taken a hit due to injuries. Inside linebacker Elandon Roberts and left guard Isaac Seumalo were both ruled out for the remainder of the game against the Cardinals. Seumalo, who had not missed a snap all season, leaves a significant void in the offensive line. Roberts, one of the team’s free agency acquisitions, had an expanded role in recent weeks after injuries to other linebackers. The team had to sign Mykal Walker and Blake Martinez to fill these positions, but Martinez has been inactive in his two games on the roster. The Steelers made a recent addition to their practice squad by signing Myles Jack, ending his brief retirement.
Upcoming Challenges and the Short Turnaround
The Steelers face a challenging week with a Thursday night game against the New England Patriots on the horizon. The short turnaround time gives the team limited practice and recovery time. Pickett’s ankle injury adds to the pressure and uncertainty surrounding the quarterback position. It remains to be seen if Pickett will be able to recover in time for the upcoming game or if Trubisky will have to once again take the reins.
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ game against the Arizona Cardinals took an unfortunate turn when quarterback Kenny Pickett sustained an ankle injury. This forced him to leave the game and put the team in a difficult position. Backup quarterback Mitch Trubisky had to step in and try to fill the void left by Pickett. The impact of Pickett’s absence, along with other injuries to key players, has undoubtedly affected the team’s performance. The Steelers now face the challenge of a short turnaround time and uncertainty at the quarterback position as they prepare for their upcoming game against the Patriots.
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