The Pittsburgh Steelers will open their season against the Atlanta Falcons without starting left guard Isaac Seumalo. On Tuesday, head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed this development, as noted by ESPN’s Brooke Pryor. Seumalo suffered a pectoral injury in practice last week, initially causing concern about a severe setback. However, Tomlin offered a more hopeful outlook, describing the injury as “week-to-week” and expressing confidence in Seumalo’s eventual recovery.
Tomlin indicated that the news about Seumalo’s injury was relatively positive, stating, “We’re characterizing it as week-to-week and will see how things progress next week, but I’m quite optimistic about his return sooner rather than later.”
With Seumalo out, second-year lineman Spencer Anderson will step into the starting role for the first time in his NFL career against the Falcons. Anderson, a seventh-round draft pick from Maryland, played in eight games during his rookie year and has been praised for his versatility. Tomlin noted Anderson’s adaptability, saying, “His versatility has been a key asset, but as he continues to develop, it’s important for him to specialize in certain areas.” Tomlin also compared Anderson’s progress to that of former Steeler Kelvin Beachum, highlighting the potential Anderson brings to the team.
Tomlin provided these injury updates as the Steelers prepare for their season opener.
Tomlin also updated on several other players recovering from injuries, according to Pryor’s report. Wide receiver Roman Wilson, lineman Troy Fautanu, running back Jaylen Warren, and cornerback Cory Trice Jr. are all limited in practice but haven’t been ruled out for the game yet. Wilson has been dealing with an ankle sprain since the first padded practice of training camp, while Fautanu is recovering from a knee sprain incurred during the preseason opener. Warren and Trice are managing hamstring and groin injuries, respectively.
Despite their current issues, Tomlin remains cautiously hopeful about their chances of playing in the season opener. “The players I mentioned seem to be improving and moving towards being available, but we’ll monitor their progress throughout the week and ensure there are no negative developments,” Tomlin said. He emphasized that their practice performance will be closely watched, as the coaching staff evaluates not only their health but also their readiness to contribute. For those with less NFL experience, this week is crucial to demonstrate their readiness to play a significant role.
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