INJURY UPDATE: The Steelers’ Three Defensive Cornerstones Will Miss the Matchup Against the Bengals. Head Coach Mike Tomlin Admits This Is a Brutal Test for Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. 11/15/2025

The Pittsburgh Steelers enter Week 11 carrying one of the most troubling injury reports of their season, with three defensive cornerstones officially ruled out for Sunday’s critical matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. With the AFC North race tightening by the week, the timing could not be worse. Pittsburgh now faces a true test of its depth and defensive identity.

Linebacker Alex Highsmith, a primary force in the team’s pass rush, did not practice at all this week because of a pectoral injury and has been ruled out. Veteran cornerback Darius Slay, expected to shadow Cincinnati’s top receivers, practiced in a limited capacity on Friday but failed to clear concussion protocol. Linebacker Cole Holcomb will also miss the game due to illness. The simultaneous loss of two linebackers and a starting cornerback places the Steelers in one of their most difficult personnel situations of the year.

Speaking to reporters, head coach Mike Tomlin did not shy away from the gravity of the challenge his team now faces.

“This will be a major test for our defense. When you lose three players with that level of experience, the pressure shifts to the younger guys. But that is the nature of the NFL, you have to be ready to adapt and maintain your standard no matter the circumstances. And sometimes, the toughest moments reveal the true character of a football team.”

Slay’s absence is particularly concerning, as the Bengals feature explosive wideouts capable of stretching the secondary. Highsmith’s loss removes Pittsburgh’s most reliable edge rusher, making it harder for the defense to generate pressure without adjusting their scheme. Holcomb’s absence further thins a linebacker group that has already been forced to rotate heavily throughout the season.

Despite the setbacks, Tomlin did receive some encouraging news. Safety Jabrill Peppers, offensive tackle Broderick Jones, and receiver Scotty Miller have all been removed from the injury report and are expected to play. Their return brings some much needed stability to a roster that has been tested repeatedly over the past several weeks.

Week 11 will be more than just another AFC North matchup. It will be a significant examination of Pittsburgh’s depth, adaptability, and competitive resilience. Missing three defensive leaders, the Steelers must prove they can withstand adversity and still find a way to stand tall against a surging Bengals team.