The defense of the Pittsburgh Steelers was dealt a big blow Sunday. Star defensive tackle Cameron Heyward is expected to miss an extended period. Heyward suffered a groin injury that could result in a trip to injured reserve as well as surgery. All options are on the table, according to reports.
While there is never a good time for this type of injury, this is particularly bad timing for Pittsburgh. The Steelers are 0-1 and are set to take on surprising AFC North leader Cleveland this week at home on Monday Night Football. The Browns have an incredibly effective rushing attack, and the talents of Heyward would come in handy as they look to stop the likes of Nick Chubb and Deshaun Watson.
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What’s next for the Steelers?
The bright side, if there is one, is that Pittsburgh’s defensive line group is the deepest part of their roster. While nobody can simply step in and replace Heyward, they can find a way to make up for his absence. It will be about a collaborative effort rather than just one player. Pittsburgh has more than enough talent to close the gap between a defense that does and does not feature Heyward.
The Steelers need to clog running lanes and find a way to attack from around the edge. With the Browns having to turn to a rookie at right tackle in the wake of Jack Conklin’s injury and Jedrick Wills being incredibly average, the Steelers should be able to wreak havoc in Cleveland’s backfield. It is about creating opportunities on the outside for T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith on Monday. Those opportunities should come early and often against a Browns offense that is still pretty much one-dimensional. Until Cleveland proves otherwise, the Steelers should be able to put together a sound game plan on defense to disrupt their offense.