Steelers’ Inactives for Week 12 Matchup Against Browns
Health often plays a pivotal role during short weeks in the NFL, and the Pittsburgh Steelers approach their Week 12 clash against the Cleveland Browns with a relatively healthy roster. However, there are notable absences, including linebacker Alex Highsmith, who remains sidelined for the second consecutive game due to an ankle injury sustained against the Washington Commanders.
With Highsmith out, linebackers Preston Smith and Nick Herbig will once again share the responsibility of filling the void. Last week, the division of playing time between the two was influenced by the defense’s efficiency in getting off the field and the offense’s ability to control possession.
Head coach Mike Tomlin highlighted this dynamic, saying, “There weren’t as many defensive snaps to go around. Herbig’s conditioning wasn’t a factor because of that, making the rotation less of an issue.”
Herbig, now in his second year, continues to demonstrate his reliability and playmaking ability. Tomlin praised the young linebacker, calling him a “big-time player” with the potential to perform in crucial moments. “He trains under T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, two excellent role models, and has an outstanding work ethic,” Tomlin added.
The Browns, aware of Herbig’s growth and Smith’s presence, are preparing for the challenges posed by the Steelers’ defense. Cleveland head coach Kevin Stefanski acknowledged Smith’s impact, describing him as “a long, strong player effective against both the run and pass.”
In addition to Highsmith, the Steelers will be without wide receiver Scotty Miller, running back Jonathan Ward, and guard Max Scharping. Quarterback Kyle Allen is also inactive, listed as the team’s third QB under the league’s emergency rule.
For the Browns, their inactives include quarterback Bailey Zappe (third QB), running back D’Onta Foreman, cornerback Chigozie Anusiem, tackle Jedrick Wills Jr., and tight end Geoff Swaim.
As the Steelers take on the Browns, these absences will test the depth of both rosters. With the stakes high in this divisional matchup, the performance of players like Herbig and Smith could prove pivotal in maintaining Pittsburgh’s defensive edge.
Full List of Inactives
Steelers: Kyle Allen (QB), Scotty Miller (WR), Jonathan Ward (RB), Alex Highsmith (LB), Max Scharping (OG).
Browns: Bailey Zappe (QB), D’Onta Foreman (RB), Chigozie Anusiem (CB), Jedrick Wills Jr. (T), Geoff Swaim (TE).
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