The Steelers will be without several other receivers for the matchup. Michael Pittman Jr. is out for a second straight game with a foot injury and was placed on injured reserve on Saturday. Roman Wilson and Ben Skowronek are also out for Week 6 after leaving last Sunday’s game with injuries and not returning. Head coach Mike McCarthy confirmed both players would miss the game.
Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. ET at Raymond James Stadium on Sunday.
Notes on the situation:
– Metcalf is the Steelers’ top receiver, so any illness affecting him is noteworthy as Pittsburgh navigates a depleted receiving corps.
– On the depth chart, Germie Bernard, Kaden Wetjen, and Eli Heidenreich are the healthy receiving options on the active roster besides Metcalf. Among them, Bernard has the most experience on offense, while Wetjen and Heidenreich have seen limited offensive snaps this season.
– Wetjen’s role this week is uncertain beyond potential contributions on special teams and limited offense. Heidenreich is listed as a RB/WR and has a background as a slot receiver from college, but his primary designation is versatile usage.
Metcalf has been a productive player, earning two Pro Bowl selections and offering reliable production in prior seasons. Last year, he posted 59 receptions for 850 yards and six touchdowns, averaging 14.4 yards per catch. Through five games this season, he has 19 receptions for 225 yards and one touchdown.
As the game approaches, Pittsburgh will monitor Metcalf’s illness and the corresponding impact on their passing game, especially given the absence of Pittman, Wilson, and Skowronek.
