PITTSBURGH, PA — As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for their crucial Week 9 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts, the team is once again battling injury concerns that could significantly impact both their offense and special teams.
Veteran wide receiver Ben Skowronek has been listed as a limited participant in the team’s first injury report of the week due to a neck injury. While the severity of the issue remains unclear, it’s a concern for the Steelers as they enter an important stretch of the season.
This marks the first time Skowronek has appeared on the injury report since Week 6, when he was sidelined with an illness prior to the Steelers’ matchup with the Cleveland Browns — a game he eventually played in despite the setback.
During his time in Pittsburgh, Skowronek has proven to be a valuable depth piece, both as a receiver and as a key special teams contributor. His only major absence came last season, when a shoulder injury placed him on injured reserve shortly after signing with the team in September 2024. He was later activated in Week 10 against the Washington Commanders after missing seven games.
Now 28, Skowronek has faced his fair share of physical challenges. A lingering hip injury late last season caused him to miss Pittsburgh’s Week 17 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs on Christmas Day. Still, his toughness and reliability have made him a respected figure inside the locker room.
While his limited participation this week is a mild concern, it’s also seen as a positive sign that he hasn’t been ruled out completely. The team hopes to see his workload increase in the coming days as preparations for the Colts continue.
Adding to Pittsburgh’s injury concerns is Scotty Miller, who continues to deal with a finger injury that kept him out of the team’s Week 8 victory over the Green Bay Packers. Miller was listed as a non-participant in the Steelers’ first practice of the week, raising doubts about his availability for Sunday.
Despite these setbacks, Pittsburgh’s receiving corps remains in relatively good shape. Calvin Austin III returned to action last week against Green Bay after missing two games with a shoulder injury suffered in the Week 4 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings. Meanwhile, star wideouts DK Metcalf and Roman Wilson have remained healthy and productive throughout the season, ensuring stability at the top of the depth chart.
Still, Skowronek’s presence carries importance beyond the stat sheet. According to Pro Football Reference, he has been involved in just 15 percent of the team’s offensive snaps this season (62 total) but has logged 139 snaps on special teams — one of the highest counts on the roster.
If Skowronek is unable to play, or if his neck injury limits his effectiveness, the impact could be most deeply felt on special teams. The Steelers have already lost Miles Killebrew, one of their top special teams aces, to a season-ending knee injury suffered in Week 6. Losing another reliable contributor in that phase of the game would be a significant blow.
“Ben brings leadership, energy, and toughness,” said a Steelers team insider. “He’s the kind of player who sets the tone on special teams. You can’t easily replace that.”
For head coach Mike Tomlin, the focus remains on next-man-up mentality — a philosophy that has defined his tenure in Pittsburgh. Still, Tomlin and the coaching staff are undoubtedly hoping for positive updates as the week progresses.
If both Skowronek and Miller are sidelined, the Steelers may look to activate a practice squad receiver such as Deuce Watts or Gunner Olszewski to provide depth on game day.
As the Steelers push for a playoff position, staying healthy becomes increasingly critical. The team’s offense has started to find rhythm behind quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who continues to build chemistry with Metcalf and Wilson. However, depth at receiver — and strength on special teams — could be key factors as the season enters its most demanding stretch.
The coming days will be crucial in determining whether Skowronek and Miller can return in time for Sunday’s showdown in Indianapolis. For now, optimism remains, but the Steelers know all too well how quickly a minor injury can alter the course of a season.
Pittsburgh’s Week 9 matchup against the Colts kicks off Sunday afternoon at Lucas Oil Stadium, where the Steelers will look to maintain momentum and continue their fight in the AFC North race.
Fans can stay updated on the latest injury developments, roster moves, and exclusive interviews by following Steelers On SI, your trusted source for daily coverage of Pittsburgh’s quest for another championship run.
