Steelers’ Cam Heyward and Dionate Johnson to Miss Time Due to Injuries

The Pittsburgh Steelers will have to find a way forward without defensive tackle Cam Heyward and wide receiver Diontae Johnson. Both are expected to miss several weeks after suffering injuries in a 30-7 loss to San Francisco on Sunday.

Heyward, a 13-year veteran, will undergo surgery for a groin injury and his return date is uncertain. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin did not provide a specific timeline, stating that he will have a better idea after the surgery. In Heyward’s absence, younger players such as DeMarvin Leal, Isaiahh Loudermilk, and rookie Keeanu Benton will be called upon to step up when the Steelers face the Cleveland Browns next Monday night.

Johnson, the team’s leading receiver for the past three years, is also expected to miss at least one game due to a right hamstring injury. The team is still waiting for the results of an MRI scan to determine the extent of the injury and how long Johnson will be sidelined. Allen Robinson, who was acquired by the Steelers in the offseason, is likely to take on a larger role in the offense after a decent performance against the 49ers.

Pittsburgh will also consider promoting wide receiver Gunner Olszewski to the active roster after he was inactive for the game against San Francisco. Tight end Pat Freiermuth and right tackle Chuks Okorafor are dealing with injuries but are expected to be available against Cleveland.

The Steelers are coming off a tough loss against the 49ers, where their defense allowed 188 rushing yards and the offense struggled to move the chains until late in the second quarter. Tomlin expressed his disappointment with the performance and emphasized the need for improvement.

Next up, the Steelers face a physical test against the Browns, who dominated the Cincinnati Bengals in their season opener. Tomlin acknowledged the challenge and stressed the need for the team’s attention and focus.

Despite some positives from the opener, Tomlin is not interested in dwelling on them. He wants the team to focus on getting better and correcting their mistakes.

“We’re not looking to feel good about ourselves,” Tomlin said. “We’re looking to get right.”