Steelers Receive Encouraging Injury News on Calvin Austin III
The Pittsburgh Steelers boast one of the NFL’s strongest tight end groups, but they may soon get a boost at wide receiver as well. Calvin Austin III could make his return in Week 8.
According to the team’s official injury report, Austin was a full participant in Wednesday’s practice — his first unrestricted session since injuring his shoulder in Week 4. ESPN’s Brooke Pryor also confirmed Austin’s return to the practice field.
Austin suffered the injury late in the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Vikings on September 28. Early reports suggested he might need to go on injured reserve, which would have sidelined him through Week 9. However, with his recent progress, there’s now a real chance he’ll suit up when the Steelers face the Green Bay Packers on Sunday night.
Through four games this season, Austin has recorded 10 receptions for 139 yards and two touchdowns. In 2023, he tallied 36 catches for 548 yards and four scores.
Calvin Austin III Likely to Bolster Steelers’ Offense in Week 8
Despite missing Austin, Pittsburgh’s passing game has held steady thanks to strong performances from its tight ends — all four receiving touchdowns in Week 7’s win over the Cincinnati Bengals came from that group.
If Austin returns, the Steelers will regain a deep threat opposite DK Metcalf. Last year, Austin averaged 15.2 yards per reception, showcasing his ability to stretch defenses.
In his absence, rookie Roman Wilson has taken on a bigger role, though his production remains limited — he caught two passes for 17 yards in Week 7, his first game with multiple receptions. Austin’s return would allow Wilson to slide back into the WR3 role, with Scotty Miller and Ben Skowronek providing additional depth.
Austin is also the team’s primary punt returner. With him sidelined, practice squad call-up Ke’Shawn Williams has handled return duties the past two games.
Steelers Injury Notes: Zach Frazier, Will Howard, Malik Harrison
The Steelers overall are trending healthier, though center Zach Frazier appeared on the injury report Wednesday with a calf issue. The second-year lineman was limited in practice despite playing every offensive snap against Cincinnati. Head coach Mike Tomlin made no mention of an injury earlier in the week, leaving the severity uncertain. His participation in upcoming practices will clarify his Week 8 status.
Meanwhile, rookie quarterback Will Howard and linebacker Malik Harrison both practiced fully. To play this week, the Steelers would need to activate them. Howard’s 21-day practice window officially opened Wednesday, shortly after the team released quarterback Logan Woodside from the practice squad.
Veteran stars T.J. Watt and Cameron Heyward did not practice but were given rest days.
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