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Steelers Offense Faces New Injury Setback Ahead of Dublin Clash with Vikings

Pittsburgh, PA — September 26, 2025 — The Pittsburgh Steelers’ injury woes deepened as tight end Jonnu Smith was added to the Week 4 injury report, casting doubt on his status for Sunday’s international matchup against the Minnesota Vikings at Croke Park, Dublin. The team, already battling a rash of injuries, confirmed the update after practicing at Ireland’s historic Carton House, where they are staying for the NFL’s first regular-season game in the country.

Smith, in his first season with Pittsburgh, joins running back Jaylen Warren and cornerback Joey Porter Jr. as questionable for the Vikings game. Outside linebacker Alex Highsmith, nursing a high ankle sprain from Week 2’s loss to the Seattle Seahawks, was ruled out earlier this week. The Steelers (2-1) also lost guard Max Scharping to a season-ending ACL tear, compounding their challenges.

Smith, a former Pro Bowler and favorite of offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, has 12 receptions for 65 yards and one touchdown on 13 targets through three games, averaging 5.4 yards per catch. His connection with quarterback Aaron Rodgers (510 career TDs) is growing, but the offense has struggled, managing just 212 passing yards per game and a league-worst 78.7 rushing yards. If Smith sits out, Darnell Washington will likely see increased snaps as a starter, with Connor Heyward stepping up as a backup tight end and special teams contributor, potentially limiting the playbook.

Warren’s questionable status, after a lackluster 47 yards on 18 carries (2.6 YPC) against the Patriots, further strains a run game already missing rookie Kaleb Johnson’s impact. The offensive line, led by Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu, has allowed seven sacks on Rodgers, drawing criticism from legend Bill Cowher for lacking identity.

As Pittsburgh prepares to face the 2-1 Vikings and their stout defense led by Brian Flores, the injury bug continues to haunt a team desperate for consistency. Can the Steelers’ depth overcome these setbacks to maintain their momentum in Dublin?

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NFL Legend Barry Sanders EXPLODES In Response To Cam Newton Calling Lions “Fool’s Gold” – And Newton’s Follow-Up Instantly Calms The Entire Detroit Nation
Detroit, Michigan. Today The debate over the true strength of the Detroit Lions suddenly detonated after a live ESPN broadcast when Cam Newton created an earthquake by calling the Lions “fool’s gold” and claiming the team “only beats weak teams.” The statement spread at lightning speed, sparking endless arguments across the NFL community. But what no one expected happened next: one of the greatest legends in Lions history decided to speak up. The studio atmosphere grew tense as Cam doubled down, insisting Detroit’s favorable schedule made them “look scarier than they actually are.” Those words enraged the Lions fanbase, especially with the team enjoying its best season in years under Dan Campbell. And that was the moment Barry Sanders — the man who always carries himself with quiet grace — stepped in to defend the franchise he gave his life to. With a calm yet razor-sharp tone, Barry Sanders fired back with a quote that instantly became a viral moment for Lions Nation: “This league tests your character every single week. If you think winning here is easy, you’ve forgotten what real football looks like. And sooner or later, this field will humble you, remind you exactly why only the toughest survive.” The entire studio fell silent for several seconds. The composure yet sheer power from the man who once shook the NFL made every previous taunt lose its weight. Cam Newton — who is used to “making waves” — appeared genuinely surprised this time. Faced with the respect Barry Sanders displayed, Cam was forced to walk it back. He explained that his intention was never to diminish the Lions, only to talk about the brutal standard of competition in the league. His explanation became softer. Deeper. And that was enough for Lions Nation to feel the recognition they deserve. The moment blew up across social media, but the most impressive part was how it ended: no more mockery — just respect from both sides. Barry Sanders showed the class of a monument. Cam Newton stepped back exactly the right amount to close the debate. With the Lions soaring higher than ever, fans believe this moment didn’t just defend the team’s honor — it became a reminder that Detroit is strong enough, tough enough, and worthy enough to be respected among the NFC’s elite.