Good News: Steelers' AFC Special Teams Player of the Week Gets Good News on Injury Status, Could Return Week 6
Pittsburgh, PA — October 3, 2025 — The Pittsburgh Steelers might not have to seek a substitute for wide receiver Calvin Austin III, as The Athletic’s Mike DeFabo reported that X-rays on the shoulder injury Austin sustained last Sunday came back negative. While this doesn’t guarantee his return for Week 6, it offers the best-case scenario following his arm being placed in a sling and a hospital visit during the Week 4 win against the Minnesota Vikings in Dublin. “A league source told me Calvin Austin III’s shoulder X-ray was negative, which is encouraging news,” DeFabo wrote. “I’m still unsure if he’ll miss playing time, but if so, this could be Roman Wilson’s chance to prove he deserves a bigger role moving forward.”
This aligns with Austin’s postgame tweet: “Great Dub in Dublin! I’m all good Steelers Nation, appreciate the messages and concern,” with teammate Ben Skowronek adding he “heard” Austin’s absence wouldn’t be lengthy. A well-timed Week 5 bye provides an extra week for recovery. Austin suffered the injury in the second half after a hard hit to his right shoulder following a short catch during the 24-21 victory.
Head coach Mike Tomlin offered little postgame insight, noting, “Calvin Austin’s got a shoulder. I think he’s at the hospital being evaluated.” With the bye week, he skipped Tuesday’s media session, and the team wasn’t required to submit an injury report. This season, Austin has recorded 10 catches for 139 yards and two touchdowns, including a decisive 17-yard grab in the Week 3 win over the Patriots. He’s been the team’s most direct threat, though DK Metcalf has shone post-catch.
If Austin is sidelined, Roman Wilson, Ben Skowronek, and Scotty Miller will step up. The trio has combined for just two receptions this year. Skowronek scored his first touchdown of 2025 and contributes solid blocking, mainly in special teams. Wilson, hampered by injuries in his rookie year, has one catch (7 yards) from Week 2’s loss to the Seahawks. Miller, with five catches in 17 games, could replace Austin on punt returns. Pittsburgh hosts the Cleveland Browns in Week 6, followed by the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 7.
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