The Steelers removed the former All-American safety from the starting lineup after he missed practice Thursday just hours before kickoff against the Bengals.

Pittsburgh, PA — October 16, 2025, 03:45 PM +07 — The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a surprising move ahead of their Thursday Night Football clash with the Cincinnati Bengals, dropping veteran safety DeShon Elliott from the starting lineup due to his absence from Thursday’s practice session. The decision, announced just hours before the 8:15 PM ET kickoff at Paycor Stadium, underscores the team’s strict accountability standards.

Elliott, who was listed as questionable for Week 7 due to personal reasons, failed to attend the team’s final practice on Thursday, marking his second consecutive day absent after missing Wednesday’s session. The 30-year-old safety, a key contributor with 24 combined tackles, 1 sack, 1 interception, and 1 forced fumble through three games this season, had been expected to return after a knee injury sidelined him earlier. However, his no-show prompted swift action from the coaching staff.

Head coach Mike Tomlin addressed the situation in a brief statement: “We have team standards, and being accountable starts with showing up. He didn’t meet that standard this week, and we made the decision accordingly. It’s not about punishment — it’s about professionalism.” Tomlin’s remarks signal a zero-tolerance approach, especially with the 4-1 Steelers aiming to maintain their AFC North edge against a desperate 1-5 Bengals squad.

With Elliott out, veterans Chuck Clark and Jabrill Peppers are set to step into larger roles, while the team adjusts its secondary strategy. The absence of Miles Killebrew (out with a significant knee injury) and Calvin Austin III (shoulder) already strained the roster, making Elliott’s unavailability a significant blow. Fans on X expressed mixed reactions, with #SteelersDiscipline trending: “Tough call, but Tomlin’s right—standards matter!” versus “Elliott’s been solid—hope it’s not personal drama.”

As the Steelers (4-1) prepare to face Joe Flacco and the Bengals, Elliott’s exclusion could test Pittsburgh’s depth. The team’s focus remains on securing a fifth win, but this move highlights the high expectations within the Steel Curtain.