Pittsburgh Steelers reveal inactive list vs. Los Angeles Chargers

The Pittsburgh Steelers released their official inactive list for Sunday night’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers. Without multiple starters, the defense will look to slow down second-year quarterback Justin Herbert with a makeshift pass rush and secondary.

Star outside linebacker TJ Watt and cornerback Joe Haden headline the list of inactives. Fellow defenders Isaiahh Loundermilk and Buddy Johnson are also inactive this week.

Watt has dealt with knee and hip injuries throughout the week. The Steelers will miss his monster presence off the edge, which has produced 12.5 sacks and 20 quarterback hits over eight games.

Haden was also ruled out with a foot injury, which was not as serious as previously thought. As he continues dealing with a mid-foot sprain, his status for future games remains in question.

Despite the absence of backup quarterback Dwayne Haskins and running back Anthony McFarland, the Steelers get good injury news on offense. Starting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is able to start, moving Haskins to the Steelers’ inactive list, and star wide receiver Chase Claypool returns.

Steelers make roster move

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made their final roster moves ahead of a Sunday night matchup with the Chargers. The great news: quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is back.

The veteran missed Week 10 because of COVID-19 protocols but has been activated for Sunday. That means Mason Rudolph, who started in his place against the Lions to the tune of 242 yards and a touchdown, will revert to a backup role.

Pittsburgh also placed offensive lineman Kevin Dotson on Injured Reserve. The Steelers starting left guard injured his ankle this past week and will be out at least three more. JC Hassenauer, who is typically a backup center/guard, is slated to start in Dotson’s place.

In its last roster move prior to the game against the Chargers, the Steelers also activated safety Karl Joseph. He has appeared in only one game this season. A former first-round pick, Joseph has accumulated 303 tackles (11 for loss), five interceptions, five fumble recoveries and 19 passes defended throughout 64 career games.

His addition to the active roster will provide much-needed depth to a Steelers secondary already dealing with a pair of crucial injuries. All-Pro safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (COVID-19 protocols) and cornerback Joe Haden (foot) will not play Sunday.

Pittsburgh also struggled without Roethlisberger in Week 10, tying a Detroit team that entered the week without a win. The defense was porous, giving up 229 yards on the ground.