Opponent Limit Key Weapon In Practice
A key weapon could be out of the mix for the Pittsburgh Steelers’ Week 1 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, as tight end Kyle Pitts was limited in practice for Atlanta on Wednesday with a hamstring injury.
While Falcons coach Raheem Morris claims that Pitts has not been hampered by the hamstring, it is still concerning that he’s being added to the injury report for the first time so close to Week 1.
If the Falcons were to lose Pitts for the season opener, it would be a huge boost for the Steelers’ defense, who would have one less weapon to worry about on the Falcons’ offense. Even without Pitts, the Steelers defense would still have to prepare for running back Bijan Robinson, wide receiver Drake London and offseason signing Kirk Cousins.
While the Steelers defense has consistently been a strength for the team in recent years, it may need to be especially strong for Week 1 with the team bringing in a new starting quarterback and offensive coordinator in Russell Wilson and Arthur Smith, respectively.
Selected with the fourth overall pick by Atlanta in 2021, Pitts has totaled 2,049 yards and six touchdowns in three seasons with the Falcons. Despite struggling to produce since his rookie year, Pitts was expected to have a much stronger season in 2024 with a new quarterback and coaching staff.
Related: ‘Versatility!’ Steelers’ Mike Tomlin Praises Do-It-All Lineman
With Pitts’ status still unknown, the Steelers will have to continue monitoring the situation throughout the week before they face Atlanta on Sunday.