Fitzpatrick could miss game vs. Jets
Safety is in the concussion protocol; team signs punter to practice squad
The Steelers have played the past two games without reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year T.J. Watt. Now, they’re hoping they won’t have to play the Jets without their second-best defensive player — safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.
Fitzpatrick has been in the NFL’s concussion protocol since reporting some symptoms following the 29-17 loss to the Browns on Thursday night. He leads the Steelers in interceptions with two and is second on the team with 24 tackles.
The Steelers also could be without starting cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon, who left the Browns game with a hamstring injury. Levi Wallace would step in for Witherspoon if he cannot play, while second-year defensive back Tre Norwood likely would get the call at free safety for Fitzpatrick.
Two other players are dealing with injuries this week that could limit their participation in practice. Guard Kevin Dotson is dealing with an ankle injury and punter Pressley Harvin III has a hip injury.
The Steelers added punter Jordan Berry to their practice squad in the event Harvin cannot play against the Jets. Berry punted for the Steelers from 2015 until last season.
Jets QB Wilson returns
Former Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco started the first three games for the Jets, but Zach Wilson is expected to get the start on Sunday. Wilson, who injured his knee during the preseason, started 13 games as a rookie last season.
Flacco, who led the Jets to a 1-2 record in Wilson’s absence, has started against the Steelers 21 times, but this will be the first time the Steelers face Wilson, the No. 2 overall pick in 2021 draft.
“We haven’t been in a stadium with him, so there are some unknowns,” coach Mike Tomlin said. “His mobility is different than Joe’s and presents some different challenges. There will be a get-to-know, if you will. But mobility and some other things is a mystery for them, as well, because he hasn’t played.”
Wilson suffered a torn meniscus and a bone bruise in the Jets’ preseason opener. He was 3-10 as a starter last season, throwing nine touchdowns and 11 interceptions.
Young Jets emerging
The Jets had four of the top 36 picks in this year’s draft, and three of them are playing key roles on the team.
Ahmad Gardner, the No. 4 overall pick, is starting at cornerback. Garrett Wilson, the No. 10 pick, is a starting receiver, and Breece Hall, who was taken with the No. 36 pick in the second round, is sharing time in the backfield with Michael Carter.
Hall has 213 yards from scrimmage, including 92 in Sunday’s loss to Cincinnati. Wilson has 18 receptions for 214 yards and two touchdowns. Both of Wilson’s touchdowns came in the Jets’ come-from-behind victory against the Browns.
Gardner, meanwhile, has played almost every snap for the Jets defense.
“We looked at him in the draft,” Tomlin said. “We were at Cincinnati’s pro day. He’s long. He’s talented. He’s confident. He’s got ball skills. He has a feel for the game.”
Jermaine Johnson, the No. 26 overall pick in the draft, is playing in a backup role at defensive end behind Carl Lawson.