Bengals, Steelers update injury report ahead of season-opening matchup

Ahead of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ season-opener against the Cincinnati Bengals, both teams have released their initial injury reports for Week 1, and while both teams have largely steered clear of lingering injuries, for the Bengals, the injury bug has plagued the tight ends room throughout training camp.

Bengals Injury Report

Full Participation: TE Drew Sample (knee)

Limited Participation: TE Mitchell Wilcox (ankle)

Did Not Participate: TE Devin Asiasi (quad)

Steelers Injury Report

Limited Participation: WR Diontae Johnson (shoulder), DB Marcus Allen (hamstring)

During Pittsburgh’s preseason finale against the Detroit Lions, Johnson was injured after hauling in an impressive catch down the left sideline for 38 yards in tight coverage. According to a report from the game, Johnson landed awkwardly on the reception and was ruled out for the remainder of the game by the Steelers.

Steelers running back Najee Harris reveals details on preseason foot injury

Pittsburgh has heavily invested in Najee Harris, making him their top running back after selecting him in the first round. The move paid off last season, where he was one of the top rookies and was voted to a Pro Bowl. It’s safe to say the Steelers have their running back room secure over the next few years.

However, Harris has been dealing with a foot injury, not being available throughout some of camp. He returned to game action on Sunday, playing in Pittsburgh’s final preseason game against the Detroit Lions. After the game, Harris confirmed he had a sprained lisfranc.

The timeline to heal a sprained lisfranc is usually four to six weeks. As things stand, Harris is currently in his fourth week of recovery as the NFL season is set to kick off in two weeks.

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Harris may still have some healing to do but in his return, he looked like his normal self. The former Alabama Crimson Tide star was jumping over defenders and getting back to his hurdling days. A foot injury can be serious, especially for a running back. But Harris is seemingly recovering well.

As a rookie, Harris rushed for exactly 1,200 yards, adding seven touchdowns as well. Pittsburgh was not afraid to use him in the passing game either, with the rookie having 74 receptions for 467 yards and three touchdowns.