*** 2024 Pittsburgh Steelers: WR G. Pickens now questionable for Week 14 (9 Viewers)

[steelers1080]

Steelers acquire WR Mike Williams from NYJ for a 5th rd pick

I'm good with it and aware we could not trade for Diontae back but crazy to me how much less Dionte was to obtain in both draft comp and remaining pay as it appears we are taking on the remainder of Williams pay.

Guess that's the cost of attitude? Diontae's not easy to deal with, been hearing for weeks that Mike Williams is an outstanding character guy.

I am surprised it was a 5th if we are paying the full salary and didn't get a 7th back too. Seems pricey, but they clearly liked him for this offense already. It just improves the WR room/depth overall, whether Van Jefferson still starts or not.

Red zone has also been a weakness, his frame should help but his body control has been hit and miss.

If we somehow get peak Williams, it's a steal, but he hasn't ever been peak reliably. Either due to injury or whatever.

 

[JoeSteeler]

Steelers trading for Preston Smith…per Rappoport

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Steelers trading for Preston Smith…per Rappoport

Makes sense with Leal and Adams out.

 

[steelers1080]

Steelers trading for Preston Smith…per Rappoport

Makes sense with Leal and Adams out.

As a 4th edge, that could be a great deal, assuming Herbig comes back. Smith is definitely getting long in the tooth, but him as depth is very solid.

 

[Godsbrother]

Steelers trading for Preston Smith…per Rappoport

2025 7th round pick. The price was right

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Steelers trading for Preston Smith…per Rappoport

Makes sense with Leal and Adams out.

As a 4th edge, that could be a great deal, assuming Herbig comes back. Smith is definitely getting long in the tooth, but him as depth is very solid.

Can play with his hand down too, right?

 

[HellToupee]

Red zone has also been a weakness, his frame should help but his body control has been hit and miss.

Throwing to the height of Pickens , Williams, Freiermuth &+Washington hopefully should help

 

[menobrown]

Steelers trading for Preston Smith…per Rappoport

2025 7th round pick. The price was right

What do we have left for day 3 picks after the Fields, Williams and Smith trades?

 

[belljr]

I don't mind it

 

[Drunken Cowboy]

Steelers acquire WR Mike Williams from NYJ for a 5th rd pick

I'm good with it and aware we could not trade for Diontae back but crazy to me how much less Dionte was to obtain in both draft comp and remaining pay as it appears we are taking on the remainder of Williams pay.

Guess that's the cost of attitude? Diontae's not easy to deal with, been hearing for weeks that Mike Williams is an outstanding character guy.

I am surprised it was a 5th if we are paying the full salary and didn't get a 7th back too. Seems pricey, but they clearly liked him for this offense already. It just improves the WR room/depth overall, whether Van Jefferson still starts or not.

Red zone has also been a weakness, his frame should help but his body control has been hit and miss.

If we somehow get peak Williams, it's a steal, but he hasn't ever been peak reliably. Either due to injury or whatever.

Peak Williams was years ago. He is beyond washed. I wouldn't have given a 7th. I don't see how he is worth having a roster spot for.

 

[Drunken Cowboy]

Steelers trading for Preston Smith…per Rappoport

Makes sense with Leal and Adams out.

As a 4th edge, that could be a great deal, assuming Herbig comes back. Smith is definitely getting long in the tooth, but him as depth is very solid.

I like this trade a lot. Not a huge need, but we have already seen what can happen with injuries stacking at one position.

 

[menobrown]

Steelers acquire WR Mike Williams from NYJ for a 5th rd pick

I'm good with it and aware we could not trade for Diontae back but crazy to me how much less Dionte was to obtain in both draft comp and remaining pay as it appears we are taking on the remainder of Williams pay.

Guess that's the cost of attitude? Diontae's not easy to deal with, been hearing for weeks that Mike Williams is an outstanding character guy.

I am surprised it was a 5th if we are paying the full salary and didn't get a 7th back too. Seems pricey, but they clearly liked him for this offense already. It just improves the WR room/depth overall, whether Van Jefferson still starts or not.

Red zone has also been a weakness, his frame should help but his body control has been hit and miss.

If we somehow get peak Williams, it's a steal, but he hasn't ever been peak reliably. Either due to injury or whatever.

Peak Williams was years ago. He is beyond washed. I wouldn't have given a 7th. I don't see how he is worth having a roster spot for.

I thought Williams looked as good as he ever has the last few years, including last year. He's not looked like that guy this year to be sure, not yet anyway.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Steelers trading for Preston Smith…per Rappoport

2025 7th round pick. The price was right

What do we have left for day 3 picks after the Fields, Williams and Smith trades?

I think we had two 5s and two or three 7s. No 6 right now, that could turn into no 4 if Fields plays more again.

 

[sm8680]

Just keep in mind that Mike Williams tore his ACL in Week 3 of the 2024 season. He looked very promising up until the injury. In the first season after an ACL injury, it's almost a given that a player might need some leeway to fully recover. In New York, it seemed like he was overlooked, possibly because he wasn't a former Packer. Most of Mike's salary for this year has already been paid out in bonuses. He was set to make $10 million for this year, and the Steelers according to Jeff Hathhorn, sports director at Pittsburgh’s 93.7 are on the hook for the remaining $300,000. Mike will become a free agent after this year.

I like Mike but the head scratcher is the guy is coming off an ACL injury. The Steeler's traded a 5th round pick for a potential rental player.

 

[crushedspirit]

Williams is good for depth I guess at a cheap salary, but don't like the 5th given for a 30 year old coming off an ACL tear 14 mths ago.

He's looked bad this season.

 

[Godsbrother]

Steelers getting healthier: Corradelle Patterson, Nick Frazier, Justin Fields and Tyler Matakavech were all full participants in practice today

 

[steelers1080]

Steelers trading for Preston Smith…per Rappoport

Makes sense with Leal and Adams out.

As a 4th edge, that could be a great deal, assuming Herbig comes back. Smith is definitely getting long in the tooth, but him as depth is very solid.

Can play with his hand down too, right?

Technically yes, but I think that's why he wanted out of GB. He's a big OLB though.

 

[ThaPenguin]

Steelers getting healthier: Corradelle Patterson, Nick Frazier, Justin Fields and Tyler Matakavech were all full participants in practice today

Bye week couldn't have come at a better time. Schedule gets real from here on out.

 

[King of the Jungle]

Dream season so far, which is shocking based on the QB carousel they started with.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Steelers trading for Preston Smith…per Rappoport

Makes sense with Leal and Adams out.

As a 4th edge, that could be a great deal, assuming Herbig comes back. Smith is definitely getting long in the tooth, but him as depth is very solid.

Can play with his hand down too, right?

Technically yes, but I think that's why he wanted out of GB. He's a big OLB though.

I think there is a package where we have 3-4 OLBs on the field at once that we kind of abandoned because Herbig is too small.

 

[C & C]

I've not read this anywhere, so I'm likely mistaken, I think TJ has been nursing an injury for a month or more. His effort down in and out has been lacking. He's been resting himself for key moments. Because of the injuries they haven't had the depth to give him necessary breaks. Hopefully the Preston Smith acquisition helps.

 

[Hankmoody]

I like Mike but the head scratcher is the guy is coming off an ACL injury. The Steeler's traded a 5th round pick for a potential rental player.

Depending on performance he could return a comp pick (but would have to wait until 2026 for that). Gabe Davis signed a $13M AAV contract and will get JAX a 4th and Curtis Samuel's $8M AAV will net a 6th. BMW would probably land somewhere on the lower end of that range, so maybe a 5th or 6th coming back should they not re-sign him.

 

[irish eyes]

Serious problem if Highsmith is out for a long time.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

Serious problem if Highsmith is out for a long time.

Yes.

Makes the trade for Smith a bigger deal, for sure.

Herbig should be back soon too.

 

[crushedspirit]

A fluke injury. Hope he's not out for too long.

 

[JoeSteeler]

Hopefully Highsmith is ok. I think a rotation of Herbig/Smith would be fine though.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

Finally got to see highlights. That td catch by Mike was raaaad. And the throw was "Russ Moon Ball."

Van Jefferson/Scotty Miller/Quez aint making that sort of catch very often. Glad Mike could do something "on day one." Build up the confidence.

 

[fred_1_15301]

I think this is finally the year we win a playoff game (or maybe even 2).

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

This team feels solid and deep in all facets of the game

 

[Ministry of Pain]

Great win Steelers' fans
Both teams played outstanding and was a fun game to watch

Something with Russ as the starter and the team not making huge mistakes on offense and making sure they are close in the 2nd Half and within striking distance
Most football games are decided by just a handful of plays, week in week out it doesn't change. The Steelers have improved their chances of winning those handful of plays each week

I would encourage you to just enjoy and not try and compare to previous seasons, Quarterbacks, other players no longer on the team, etc...let Russ do his thing
And the best part is their's a back up that played meaningful games this season already.
Tomlin another masterful coaching performance this year

 

[Godsbrother]

i had nothing against Russ Wilson but didn’t think Fields should have been benched. Boy was I wrong: Wilson has played great. His touch and willingness to throw downfield and use the middle of the field has made all the difference. Night and day.

I also wasn’t sure about the trades made at the deadline but Williams catch was outstanding and it looks like he could be the legit #2 receiver we’ve been looking for.

It looks like Highsmith could be out for an extended period of time, so the acquisition of Smith is going to pay dividends. Herbig should be back soon too.

Joey Porter Jr had a rough day. He’s gotta cut down on the grabbing. and clutching.

I heard Dante Jackson left the game with an injury, hopefully not serious

I understand why they called the fake punt and it should have worked. I just don’t like doing it on your own 15

Overall a great victory, now we get three AFC North games in a row starting with the Ravens. Buckle up, it should be an interesting ride.

 

[apalmer]

I understand why they called the fake punt and it should have worked. I just don’t like doing it on your own 15

The thing is, that play only works if the element of surprise is present. When you're punting from your own 15, the defense is likely either on an all-out rush to attempt a block or peeling everyone back to block for a big return. They aren't seriously thinking about the possibility of a fake. If you're punting from the 50 (or anywhere else less risky than the 15), the defense is less likely to think a big return is possible, so peeling back blockers isn't uppermost in their minds, and the fake isn't as likely to succeed. While the risk is obviously higher, I'd argue that being that deep in your own territory is also the most likely scenario for it to work. I'd also guess (although it's pure speculation) that the Steelers had seen something on film that told them in that type of situation the defender always peeled back without staying near the gunner. Maybe in a "safer" position the defender didn't show that tendency.

 

[crushedspirit]

Steelers beat writer Gerry Dulac reports LB Alex Highsmith is set to undergo an MRI on his ankle and is “likely out 2-3 games.”
Highsmith rolled his ankle late in the Steelers’ Week 10 win over the Commanders and needed assistance getting to the sideline. We could safely assume, based on replay, that Highsmith would miss some time with the injury, but now we have a bit of a timeline. With their bye week already passed, a 2-3 week absence would put Highsmith on pace to return in Week 14 or 15. Highsmith has totaled 19 tackles, four TFLs, and three sacks for the Steelers in six this season.

 

[steelers1080]

Highsmith out 2-3 weeks; sucks we won't have him against the Ravens, but thank goodness we just got an OLB.

A lot of people have not been fans of the fake punt but I loved to see it. We have done hardly any trick/gadget plays in the past few seasons and this one was perfectly timed. Pierre should have caught that easy floater and he just got too excited about what to do after the catch that he forgot to make the catch. It was a great call that just didn't work out.

Yesterday's win gives me hope that we'll both make the playoffs and possibly win in the playoffs. That was the kind of game that over the past 5 years we would have just lost. Our D is still struggling at times, but the offense and ST is doing just enough to still pull off wins and the D is getting key stops/turnovers.

Next week against the Ravens we need to throw a lot, their secondary is trash. I hope to heck we don't try to keep running over and over if that's not working. I would not be surprised if there's 70+ total points next week with how weak our Run D has been.

 

[Godsbrother]

I understand why they called the fake punt and it should have worked. I just don’t like doing it on your own 15

The thing is, that play only works if the element of surprise is present. When you're punting from your own 15, the defense is likely either on an all-out rush to attempt a block or peeling everyone back to block for a big return. They aren't seriously thinking about the possibility of a fake. If you're punting from the 50 (or anywhere else less risky than the 15), the defense is less likely to think a big return is possible, so peeling back blockers isn't uppermost in their minds, and the fake isn't as likely to succeed. While the risk is obviously higher, I'd argue that being that deep in your own territory is also the most likely scenario for it to work. I'd also guess (although it's pure speculation) that the Steelers had seen something on film that told them in that type of situation the defender always peeled back without staying near the gunner. Maybe in a "safer" position the defender didn't show that tendency.

Yes, they did see that Washington was leaving the gunner uncovered when the ball was punted inside the 20 and were practicing it all week.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

Next week against the Ravens we need to throw a lot, their secondary is trash.

This.

Russ better ice that arm. They ain't gonna beat the Ravens trying to play turtle ball.

Muth/Washington need to get ready too. The Ravens have been turrrrrible versus tight ends, IIRC.

 

[infantsam]

Alright I need me some advice.

Sold a kidney and bought tix to this weekends epic game.

Heading in from Frederick MD Sunday AM. 3.5 hrs according to Google Maps.
We are in section 111 - visitor side.

Which lot should we park in? We have to leave at 8 AM because of dog drop off.
If we are scheduled for 11:30 arrival - will we make it in time? What should we expect in terms of delays getting into the area etc.
(We'd like to get a snack, maybe take a quick walk around before etc if possible)

 

[Drunken Cowboy]

Alright I need me some advice.

Sold a kidney and bought tix to this weekends epic game.

Heading in from Frederick MD Sunday AM. 3.5 hrs according to Google Maps.
We are in section 111 - visitor side.

Which lot should we park in? We have to leave at 8 AM because of dog drop off.
If we are scheduled for 11:30 arrival - will we make it in time? What should we expect in terms of delays getting into the area etc.
(We'd like to get a snack, maybe take a quick walk around before etc if possible)

I always park at the casino, but I am not sure if it will be full by then. I never come in to a game that late because if I go I head to a tailgate party. I would guess traffic is not terrible as you get closer to gametime. You could take the Clipper across the river

Our Shuttle Service | Gateway Clipper

We provide Shuttle service to every home game & concert at PNC Park & Acrisure Stadium!

www.gatewayclipper.com

 

[belljr]

Still a lot of season left but I'm pleasantly surprised this season - unlike the last 2 or 3 where every game just felt like a drain

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Still a lot of season left but I'm pleasantly surprised this season - unlike the last 2 or 3 where every game just felt like a drain

Who knew quarterback mattered?

 

[bryhamm]

Alright I need me some advice.

Sold a kidney and bought tix to this weekends epic game.

Heading in from Frederick MD Sunday AM. 3.5 hrs according to Google Maps.
We are in section 111 - visitor side.

Which lot should we park in? We have to leave at 8 AM because of dog drop off.
If we are scheduled for 11:30 arrival - will we make it in time? What should we expect in terms of delays getting into the area etc.
(We'd like to get a snack, maybe take a quick walk around before etc if possible)

Holy crap. I used to live in Frederick, MD. Moved there in 2000 and moved out in 2003. Small world.

Enjoy the game.

 

[kupcho1]

Alright I need me some advice.

Sold a kidney and bought tix to this weekends epic game.

Heading in from Frederick MD Sunday AM. 3.5 hrs according to Google Maps.
We are in section 111 - visitor side.

Which lot should we park in? We have to leave at 8 AM because of dog drop off.
If we are scheduled for 11:30 arrival - will we make it in time? What should we expect in terms of delays getting into the area etc.
(We'd like to get a snack, maybe take a quick walk around before etc if possible)

I always park at the casino, but I am not sure if it will be full by then. I never come in to a game that late because if I go I head to a tailgate party. I would guess traffic is not terrible as you get closer to gametime. You could take the Clipper across the river

Our Shuttle Service | Gateway Clipper

We provide Shuttle service to every home game & concert at PNC Park & Acrisure Stadium!

www.gatewayclipper.com

Clipper is a nice way to arrive, particularly for your first visit.

 

[fred_1_15301]

This season will be defined by how healthy they are going into the playoffs. When healthy, this is a pretty complete team. For the first time in forever, my expectations are very high.

 

[Godsbrother]

Alright I need me some advice.

Sold a kidney and bought tix to this weekends epic game.

Heading in from Frederick MD Sunday AM. 3.5 hrs according to Google Maps.
We are in section 111 - visitor side.

Which lot should we park in? We have to leave at 8 AM because of dog drop off.
If we are scheduled for 11:30 arrival - will we make it in time? What should we expect in terms of delays getting into the area etc.
(We'd like to get a snack, maybe take a quick walk around before etc if possible)

I park on the North Side at the Humane Society. There are many lots over there to choose from, running from $30-$60. From there it is less than a 10 minute walk and you won’t get stuck after the game as you would in the stadium or casino lots. Of course if you’re not in a hurry to get home then the casino makes sense though is quite expensive

 

[Godsbrother]

This season will be defined by how healthy they are going into the playoffs. When healthy, this is a pretty complete team. For the first time in forever, my expectations are very high.

If they lose this game you’ll see a bunch of Steelers fans jumping off bridges

 

[Gatorade]

Alright I need me some advice.

Sold a kidney and bought tix to this weekends epic game.

Heading in from Frederick MD Sunday AM. 3.5 hrs according to Google Maps.
We are in section 111 - visitor side.

Which lot should we park in? We have to leave at 8 AM because of dog drop off.
If we are scheduled for 11:30 arrival - will we make it in time? What should we expect in terms of delays getting into the area etc.
(We'd like to get a snack, maybe take a quick walk around before etc if possible)

With one less kidney, does that mean you have to cut your beer consumption in half ?

 

[infantsam]

Alright I need me some advice.

Sold a kidney and bought tix to this weekends epic game.

Heading in from Frederick MD Sunday AM. 3.5 hrs according to Google Maps.
We are in section 111 - visitor side.

Which lot should we park in? We have to leave at 8 AM because of dog drop off.
If we are scheduled for 11:30 arrival - will we make it in time? What should we expect in terms of delays getting into the area etc.
(We'd like to get a snack, maybe take a quick walk around before etc if possible)

I park on the North Side at the Humane Society. There are many lots over there to choose from, running from $30-$60. From there it is less than a 10 minute walk and you won’t get stuck after the game as you would in the stadium or casino lots. Of course if you’re not in a hurry to get home then the casino makes sense though is quite expensive

Seems like a good idea.

I'll be checking the map/traffic on the way as well.

 

[infantsam]

Alright I need me some advice.

Sold a kidney and bought tix to this weekends epic game.

Heading in from Frederick MD Sunday AM. 3.5 hrs according to Google Maps.
We are in section 111 - visitor side.

Which lot should we park in? We have to leave at 8 AM because of dog drop off.
If we are scheduled for 11:30 arrival - will we make it in time? What should we expect in terms of delays getting into the area etc.
(We'd like to get a snack, maybe take a quick walk around before etc if possible)

With one less kidney, does that mean you have to cut your beer consumption in half ?

Not sure ....but I'll find out.

 

[Black and Gold]

Alright I need me some advice.

Sold a kidney and bought tix to this weekends epic game.

Heading in from Frederick MD Sunday AM. 3.5 hrs according to Google Maps.
We are in section 111 - visitor side.

Which lot should we park in? We have to leave at 8 AM because of dog drop off.
If we are scheduled for 11:30 arrival - will we make it in time? What should we expect in terms of delays getting into the area etc.
(We'd like to get a snack, maybe take a quick walk around before etc if possible)

I always park at the casino, but I am not sure if it will be full by then. I never come in to a game that late because if I go I head to a tailgate party. I would guess traffic is not terrible as you get closer to gametime. You could take the Clipper across the river

Our Shuttle Service | Gateway Clipper

We provide Shuttle service to every home game & concert at PNC Park & Acrisure Stadium!

www.gatewayclipper.com

Clipper is a nice way to arrive, particularly for your first visit.

Nice way to arrive. Not to leave unless you want to wait for 2 hours.

 

[irish eyes]

Alright I need me some advice.

Sold a kidney and bought tix to this weekends epic game.

Heading in from Frederick MD Sunday AM. 3.5 hrs according to Google Maps.
We are in section 111 - visitor side.

Which lot should we park in? We have to leave at 8 AM because of dog drop off.
If we are scheduled for 11:30 arrival - will we make it in time? What should we expect in terms of delays getting into the area etc.
(We'd like to get a snack, maybe take a quick walk around before etc if possible)

I always park at the casino, but I am not sure if it will be full by then. I never come in to a game that late because if I go I head to a tailgate party. I would guess traffic is not terrible as you get closer to gametime. You could take the Clipper across the river

Our Shuttle Service | Gateway Clipper

We provide Shuttle service to every home game & concert at PNC Park & Acrisure Stadium!

www.gatewayclipper.com

Clipper is a nice way to arrive, particularly for your first visit.

Nice way to arrive. Not to leave unless you want to wait for 2 hours.

Yes very nice way to go to stadium & correct on the trip back over.